Incident
A flight instructor and his dual primary student were conducting a cross-country flight. As they were letting down for pattern entry at El Monte, the engine lost power. The flight instructor subsequently attempted a night forced landing in a dry riverbed. During touchdown, the aircraft collided with ground obstructions.
Investigation
A Safety Board investigator examined the aircraft at the accident site. The investigation established complete fuel system continuity, with no evidence of fuel line or tank leakage. The fuel tank vent system was not blocked, and no evidence of fuel siphoning was observed on the upper surfaces of the wings. Only residual fuel was found in the fuel system.
Findings
The engine power loss occurred during descent. The instructor's forced landing was conducted at night, and the touchdown resulted in collision with obstacles. No further details regarding the aircraft type, registration, or occupant injuries were provided in the source.