On September 5, 1994, a Stinson 108-3 (registration N6446M) operated by Gary D. Murdock was involved in an aviation accident near Shelter Cove, CA. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: INADEQUATE PREFLIGHT BY THE PILOT, WHICH RESULTED IN FUEL STARVATION AND LOSS OF ENGINE POWER, IMPROPER (OR DELAYED) POSITIONING OF THE FUEL SELECTOR TO THE FULLEST TANK, AND FAILURE OF THE PILOT TO MAINTAIN ADEQUATE AIRSPEED, WHILE MANEUVERING FOR A FORCED… This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
Witnesses reported abnormal engine sounds after takeoff, followed by power interruptions. The aircraft turned 180 degrees, then stalled and spun into the shoreline. Post-accident examination found an unlocked primer and fuel selector positioned to right tank. No preimpact mechanical failure was identified.
Flight and Accident Sequence
Immediately after the airplane took off, witnesses heard an abnormal sound from the engine. The engine sound then stopped momentarily and resumed. The aircraft entered a right 180-degree turn. While in the turn, another power interruption occurred before the engine stopped completely. Ground witnesses reported that after the final engine stoppage, the aircraft stalled and spun into the shoreline.
Post-Accident Examination
High tide caused the airplane to shift before it could be inspected. The fuel primer control was found unlocked and extended. The fuel selector was positioned to the right tank. Both main fuel tanks had ruptured on impact. However, the right main tank exhibited significantly more fire damage and hydraulic deformation than the left tank.
Fuel Consumption Analysis
A computation of fuel consumption indicated that approximately 23 gallons of fuel had been used since the airplane was last refueled. The capacity of each main tank was 23 gallons of usable fuel.