At about 1314 Eastern time, the airplane was destroyed when it impacted trees and terrain in a farm pasture shortly after takeoff. Day visual conditions prevailed. The airline transport pilot was fatally injured.
Shortly after takeoff, at about 300 feet agl, the pilot transmitted a mayday over the tower frequency. The flight was subsequently cleared to land on any runway but no further communication was received. According to witnesses, the airplane was observed in a left-wing-down bank when it impacted a tree, powerlines and then another tree prior to coming to rest. The witnesses further stated they heard the engine producing power; however, they could not determine if both engines were operating. Examination revealed fuel was present in both the left and right wing tanks.
