NTSB Factual Report

On July 8, 2017, about 0755 eastern daylight time, a Beech C23, N6682U, operated by a private individual, was substantially damaged during a forced landing after takeoff from Bartow Municipal Airport (BOW), Bartow, Florida. The commercial pilot sustained minor injuries, and the passenger was not injured. The personal flight was conducted under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan was filed for the local flight.

According to a statement provided to a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector, the pilot reported that the takeoff was normal; however, during the initial climb, while at an altitude about 200 to 300 ft above the ground, the engine suddenly experienced a total loss of power. He switched fuel tanks and the engine momentarily surged, and then quit again. The pilot landed straight ahead, and the airplane impacted terrain just past the end of runway 09L. The pilot further stated he departed with 20 gallons of fuel in each tank. First responders reported fuel "pouring" out of the left wing, and fuel remained in the right wing. The pilot reported the airplane had an annual inspection the week before, and had been flown 4 or 5 hours prior to the accident flight.

Initial examination of the airplane by the FAA inspector revealed that the right wing, firewall and fuselage were substantially damaged. Both propeller blades were bent aft nearly 90°. The propeller was manually rotated; valve train continuity was confirmed, and thumb compression was obtained on all cylinders.

The airplane was recovered and retained for further examination.