At 1715 Eastern time, the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power on initial climb. The pilot attempted to return to the airport but the airplane collided with trees, sustaining substantial damage. The private pilot and one passenger received serious injuries. Visual conditions prevailed.
From preflight through run-up, no anomalies were noted. After takeoff, while the landing gear and flaps were retracting, engine rpm decreased to 2400. The pilot turned left in an attempt to return to a closed runway. During the turn “the engine became quiet” and the airplane collided with trees.
