Incident Overview
According to transcripts of communications provided by the FAA, a pilot was conducting cruise flight at 10,000 feet above mean sea level approximately 10 miles southwest of an airport when the pilot reported a loss of engine power and requested the nearest airport. The Indianapolis Air Route Traffic Control Center controller provided vectors to the airport. The pilot subsequently reported having the airport in sight and indicated an intention to land on runway 31.
Witness Account
A witness reported observing the airplane execute a steep turn before it fell to the ground.
Airport and Terrain
The airport is situated in a mountain valley, with hills approximately 500 feet high on both sides.
Impact and Damage
The airplane impacted on runway 13. Post-impact forces and a post-impact fire destroyed the aircraft.
Engine Examination
An examination of the engine revealed a broken crankshaft. The crankshaft was removed and sent to the NTSB laboratory in Washington, DC. A metallurgical examination determined that the crankshaft had failed where a fatigue crack had initiated on the surface of the aft radius of the #2 main journal.