Accident Details
On October 12, 2015, at 0349 central daylight time, a Diamond DA20-C1 airplane experienced an engine power loss during a night flight near Waskom, Texas. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, performed a forced landing. The pilot was not injured, but the airplane sustained substantial damage.
Flight Information
The aircraft was registered to a private individual and operated under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight. Night visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time, and no flight plan had been filed. The flight originated from Marshall, Texas (ASL), proceeded to Shreveport, Louisiana, and was en route back to Marshall when the incident occurred.
Pilot's Account
The pilot reported to air traffic controllers that the engine had lost power and that he did not believe he could glide to the airport in Marshall. He also stated that it was dark and he could not see anything below. The forced landing occurred approximately 6.9 miles east of ASL.
Post-Accident Examination
Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspectors examined the airplane and found no fuel in the fuel tanks. However, the pilot was adamant that he had fuel on board. The airplane reportedly had been taken without the owner's permission, leading to the pilot's arrest.