At about 0705 Eastern time, the airplane was substantially damaged during a forced landing following loss of engine power while on approach. The airline transport pilot and the passenger/owner were seriously injured. Visual conditions prevailed; an IFR flight plan was in effect.
The airplane had crossed the final approach fix at 2000 feet msl, and the pilot had the airport in sight when the engine “started to fail.” The engine sputtered and the pilot selected a forced landing site because he determined the airplane could not reach the airport. The pilot slowed to best glide airspeed (80 knots) and performed remedial actions, but engine power was not restored. The airplane struck trees, terrain, and a bulldozer in a construction area where it came to rest. Inspection revealed both wings, while separated from the airframe, contained fuel.
