Flight and Power Loss
The pilot was 1 hour 24 minutes into the flight, cruising at an altitude of 8,000 feet, when he notified air traffic control (ATC) that engine power had been lost. At the time, the aircraft was approximately 12 miles from the nearest airport, which had a field elevation of 2,693 feet. ATC provided vectors toward that airport.
Descent and Communication
Three minutes after the initial report, the pilot radioed ATC again, stating that he was descending at a rate of 600-700 feet per minute and was uncertain whether he could reach the airport. One minute later, he contacted ATC to advise that he intended to attempt a landing on a highway. No further radio communication followed.
Witness Observation and Wreckage
A witness reported observing the aircraft descending without engine power to the south in a steep angle. According to the witness, the aircraft then executed a sudden left turn and fell to the ground. The wreckage was located 3.5 miles north of the airport, coming to rest on a dirt road.
Examination Results
Examination of the airplane did not disclose evidence of mechanical malfunction.