On May 24, 1994, a Grumman G-164B (registration N48386) was involved in an aviation accident near Casscoe, AR. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: The cause of the power loss was not determined. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
During an agricultural swath run, smoke appeared from the engine. The engine lost power and seized. The pilot attempted a forced landing but struck a ditch, causing a fuel leak and fire that destroyed the aircraft. The cause of the power loss was not determined.
Sequence of Events
As the pilot completed an agricultural swath run and initiated a climb, smoke was observed coming from the engine. While executing a turn, the engine experienced a total loss of power and seized.
Emergency Response
The pilot released his payload and began a 180-degree turn toward the only suitable landing area. After completing approximately 90 degrees of the turn, he realized that his altitude and airspeed were insufficient to reach the intended field. He then leveled the wings and landed straight ahead.
Accident Outcome
The aircraft struck a ditch during the landing, causing the fuel tank to rupture. A subsequent fire engulfed and destroyed the aircraft.
Investigation
The cause of the engine power loss could not be determined.