NTSB: Engine malfunction in mid-air linked to fatal Denver-area plane crash, preliminary report says
Beef BE35 crash near Centennial Airport killed two pilots; investigators cite mid-air engine failure in preliminary findings
A Beech BE35 small plane that crashed near Denver on Sept. 5 killed both pilots after an in-flight engine malfunction, according to a preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board. The crash occurred near Centennial Airport in Englewood, Colorado, as the airplane was conducting a morning training flight.
Officials said the flight was requested by one of the pilots, who planned to buy a similar model. The two men had set out shortly after sunrise, taking off around 5:45 a.m. and remaining in the airport's traffic pattern. The aircraft completed several successful landings before the engine suddenly went quiet, the NTSB said.
The plane then went down less than an hour after takeoff, colliding with several concrete pole barriers in front of a diesel-powered generator before coming to rest and bursting into flames. The Beech BE35 was demolished in the crash, and both pilots were killed. The victims were later identified as Perry "Matt" Feeney and Lee "Rob" Hill, both Colorado natives.
The crash site drew initial attention because authorities initially reported an explosion, a reflection of the proximity to the generator. First responders arrived as the aircraft became fully engulfed in flames, and the fire grew before crews could secure the area and prevent spread to nearby structures. Witnesses within about two miles of the scene said they heard the engine go silent while the plane was overhead; one resident described the craft deviating from its flight path and banking left as it descended.
Air traffic control audio posted by LiveATC.net captures the clearance for takeoff moments before the accident, though neither pilot issued a distress call, according to the preliminary record. The NTSB and the Federal Aviation Administration are conducting the joint investigation, with safety analysts expected to review maintenance logs, pilot qualifications, weather conditions at the time, and air traffic data as part of the inquiry.
The investigation remains in its early stages, and investigators cautioned that the preliminary findings could change as more data is collected. A final report, including probable cause and safety recommendations, will be issued after the thorough review is completed.
