On November 10, 1990, a Cessna 182Q (registration N759ED) operated by Harold L. Wessel was involved in an aviation accident near Pacoima, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: AN ENGINE FAILURE FOR UNDETERMINED REASONS. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported an engine failure just after takeoff. Witnesses saw the propeller stopped as the airplane descended toward a city street. It struck a commercial manufacturing building roof and then the ground. Investigation found automotive fuel in the primer line.
Accident
A pilot reported an engine failure shortly after takeoff. Witnesses observed the airplane descending toward a city street with its propeller stopped. The aircraft impacted the roof of a commercial manufacturing building and then continued to the ground.
Investigation
Examination of the engine revealed no evidence of preimpact malfunction. A small quantity of fuel was found in the primer line, which was similar in color and smell to automotive fuel. Multiple individuals at the airport stated that the pilot used automotive fuel in the airplane and had refueled from five-gallon gas cans he brought to the airport. The airplane did not have a supplemental type certificate permitting the use of automotive gasoline.
What happened in the 10 Nov 1990 Cessna 182Q accident near Pacoima, CA?
A pilot reported an engine failure just after takeoff. Witnesses saw the propeller stopped as the airplane descended toward a city street. It struck a commercial manufacturing building roof and then the ground. Investigation found automotive fuel in the primer line.
What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?
The accident on 10 Nov 1990 involved a Cessna 182Q, registration N759ED, operated by Harold L. Wessel, at Pacoima, CA.
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