At 1406 Eastern time, the airplane collided with the ground while attempting to return to the departure airport. The airplane was substantially damaged; a post-crash fire ensued. Visual conditions prevailed. The solo private pilot died.
Shortly after takeoff, the pilot reported a loss of engine power on the left engine. The pilot was provided radar vectors and a descent back to the departure airport and subsequently reported the airport in sight. A witness observed the airplane pitch straight up, stall and spin to the left three times before colliding with the ground.
