NTSB

The pilot’s improper fuel planning, which resulted in a total loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion.

Loss of brake pressure to both sets of brakes during taxi due to failed brake caliper O-ring seals, which resulted in a loss of directional control.

The instructor pilot’s decision to perform an inflight magneto check with no suitable area to land. Contributing to the accident was the pilot’s failure to correctly perform a magneto check that resulted in a total loss of engine power.

The pilot of the departing airplane’s failure to see and avoid the landing airplane before takeoff, resulting in a collision with the landing airplane. Contributing was the airport’s failure to encourage pilots to use radios for traffic deconfliction when equipped.

Both pilots’ decision to perform the takeoff near maximum gross weight with 10° of flaps, contrary to the owner’s manual procedure, which resulted in the airplane’s degraded climb performance approaching high terrain.

The partial loss of engine power due to a stuck exhaust valve.

The pilot’s suicide.

The pilot’s failure to maintain directional control while landing, resulting in a runway excursion. Contributing to the outcome was the pilot’s failure to ensure that the airplane’s right side door was properly secured prior to departing on the accident flight, and his subsequent distraction due to the door during the landing attempt.