Flight Details
The aircraft was on an IFR cross-country flight. Approximately 20 miles from the destination airport, the pilot had descended from the cruising altitude of 10,000 feet to 8,000 feet as assigned by approach control. Shortly after stabilizing at the lower altitude, the engine lost all power.
Power Loss and Emergency Landing
Following the power loss, the pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful. An emergency landing was executed on broken prairie terrain about 10 miles from the airport. During the landing, the aircraft struck a dirt bank.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the engine revealed no evidence of malfunction or preimpact damage. The cause of the power loss was not determined from the available evidence.