What happened
While cruising at 6,000 feet, the aircraft's engine began to experience significant vibration and a loss of power. In response to the deteriorating engine performance, the pilot prepared for a forced landing at a nearby airport.
As the flight progressed, the level of vibration increased alongside the continued loss of engine power. During the emergency descent, oil began to coat the windshield, obscuring the pilot's forward visibility. To regain a clear view of the terrain ahead, the pilot performed a slip. This maneuver resulted in a further reduction of both airspeed and altitude. The aircraft ultimately came to rest in trees approximately 1/4 mile short of the runway.
The investigation
An examination of the engine was conducted following the accident. Investigators determined that the crankshaft had failed on the front face of the number 2 crank pin. A subsequent metallurgical examination identified fracture features characteristic of a fatigue crack that had originated below the surface of the component.