What happened
The pilot was conducting the approach for landing when the engine suddenly lost power. The situation required an immediate emergency response, leading to a forced landing on a public city street rather than an airfield. During the subsequent landing roll, the aircraft sustained significant impact damage after colliding with a pickup truck, several light poles, and a retaining wall.
The investigation
Following the accident, investigators conducted a detailed internal examination of the engine to determine the mechanical cause of the power loss. The inspection revealed critical failures within the engine's lubrication system. Specifically, the number two main bearing exhibited signs of heat damage and had spun out of position. Additionally, the number two rod cap bearing showed heavy wear patterns and was discolored due to excessive heat.
Findings
The mechanical evidence points directly to a catastrophic failure of the engine's internal components. The heat damage and spinning of the main bearing indicate a loss of lubrication or oil pressure that led to metal-to-metal contact. This failure resulted in the immediate loss of engine power while the aircraft was on a left base leg, leaving insufficient altitude or distance to reach a suitable landing site.