Incident Overview
An aircraft experienced a forced landing at night, during which it collided with trees and the ground. The pilot reported that the aircraft made strange sounds and began vibrating shortly after takeoff. A glide was initiated for a forced landing, but the intended airport could not be reached. The pilot subsequently executed a landing on a dry riverbed.
Sequence of Events
After takeoff, the pilot noticed unusual noises and vibrations. Determining that a forced landing was necessary, the pilot set up a glide and attempted to reach an airport. Unable to do so, the aircraft was directed toward a dry riverbed for the landing. During the landing, the aircraft struck trees and then the ground.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident examination of the propeller revealed that 6 3/4 inches of one blade were missing and could not be located. The failure of the propeller blade was determined to be the result of a pre-existing fatigue crack. The pilot stated that the aircraft operated from a gravel strip in New Mexico.