Accident Sequence
The pilot contacted the ARSA controller for advisories after experiencing a loss of power on the right engine while overflying an Air Force base. The controller informed the pilot that his position was near a civilian airport with limited maintenance facilities and an Air Force base. The pilot indicated a desire to continue to a larger civilian airport along his route where maintenance service could be obtained.
Subsequently, the pilot reported to the controller that visibility of the ground was poor and that he was unable to maintain altitude because the propeller was not feathering. The aircraft overflew a small civilian airport, and the pilot communicated to the UNICOM operator his intention to attempt a landing on an interstate highway. The aircraft then overflew the highway, impacted an electrical transmission line, and collided with a residence.
Post-Accident Findings
A post-accident inspection revealed that the right engine's #3 cylinder head had fractured, allowing the head to displace outward by 3/8 inch. The fracture resulted from fatigue at the threaded area between the cylinder head and cylinder. The propeller governor was tested functionally after the accident and operated normally.