Probable cause
The loss of left engine power for reasons that could not be determined due to impact and fire damage.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that, shortly after takeoff, the twin-engine airplane's left front baggage door opened. He attempted to return to the airport, but the left engine lost engine power while the airplane was on the downwind leg of the traffic pattern. The airplane subsequently impacted power lines and terrain. An explosion occurred during the impact sequence, and a fire ensued that almost completely consumed the airframe.
Teardown examination of the right engine revealed no anomalies. A test run of the left engine revealed no anomalies; however, due to impact and fire damage, it was not possible to fully test or examine the left engine's fuel system. The reason for the left engine's loss of power could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN14LA324 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 26, 2014
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Maryland Heights, Missouri
- Nearest airport
- Creve Coeur (1H0)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Dawn
Cessna 414
- N-number
- N1552T
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1972
- Damage
- Destroyed
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.