Incident Overview
A pilot was forced to make a precautionary landing after the airplane experienced a total electrical failure. According to the pilot's report, while flying in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) at 14,000 feet mean sea level, he began preparations for ice penetration and activated the propeller anti-ice switches. The right propeller anti-ice circuit breaker then popped; when the pilot reset it, the airplane suffered a complete loss of electrical power.
Emergency Descent and VFR Conditions
The pilot initiated an emergency descent and broke out into visual flight rules (VFR) conditions at approximately 1,500 feet. For about 30 minutes, he attempted to locate an airport. With darkness approaching and thunderstorms in the area, the pilot decided to land on a narrow road flanked by trees on both sides.
Landing Maneuver and Impact
During the landing, the pilot turned the airplane to avoid colliding with a pickup truck on the road. Subsequently, the airplane impacted trees.
System Testing
Following the incident, testing of the alternator system revealed discrepancies with the left alternator, both voltage regulators, and the right alternator out sensor.