On September 3, 1995, a Piper PA-24-250 (registration N700TD) operated by Otto L. Saxild was involved in an aviation accident near Sheridan, WY. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: fuel starvation for undetermined reasons. The lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing was a factor. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
An airplane experienced engine power loss shortly after takeoff, collided with a hill in a left wing-low attitude. Examination revealed fuel system issues and the airplane was 381 pounds over maximum gross weight.
Accident Description
Shortly after takeoff, one of the passengers reported that the engine suddenly lost power. Witnesses observed the airplane make a left turn before losing sight of it behind rolling terrain. The airplane subsequently collided with the uphill side of a small hill in a left wing-low attitude. The surrounding terrain varied from flat open fields to rolling hills.
Examination Findings
Fuel system examination revealed that three of the four fuel tanks had ruptured. The fuel lines to the fuel selector were compromised; however, fuel was found in the fuel selector bowl. The fuel selector was positioned and in the detent for the left auxiliary fuel tank. The fuel lines forward to the engine and carburetor were intact, but no fuel was present forward of the fuel selector. The engine was examined and no evidence was found to indicate a mechanical failure or malfunction. The airplane was approximately 381 pounds over its maximum gross weight.
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