What happened
While taxiing for takeoff, the crew detected an odor similar to an electrical fire, followed by visible smoke appearing in the cockpit. In response, the crew secured both generators and the battery master switch. Despite these actions, smoke continued to emanate from the right wing accessory junction box located within the right wheel well, and the right generator failed to accept a load.
Three occupants successfully deplaned the aircraft. The occupants initially managed to extinguish the fire; however, the flames reignited due to the presence of hot metal and compromised fuel and oil lines. After securing all aircraft systems, the pilot evacuated the plane. The aircraft was subsequently consumed by the fire. The pilot estimated that firefighting equipment did not arrive on the scene until 20 to 25 minutes after the initial fire began.
The investigation
FAA inspectors were unable to identify the specific source of the fire from the burned wreckage. However, an operator's report indicated that the right starter solenoid failed to open following engine start. This failure caused the starter to remain linked to the electrical system, leading to a system overload and the resulting electrical fire. It was noted that both fuel and oil lines were routed through the right wheel well.