Accident Overview
On September 27, 2019, about 1945 Pacific daylight time, a Piper PA-28-236 airplane, N8353T, was destroyed when it was involved in an accident near Modesto, California. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, was not injured. The airplane was operating as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.
Flight and Power Loss
The pilot reported departing about 1850 and was approximately 20 minutes from his destination at 5,500 ft mean sea level when he experienced a momentary partial loss of engine power. In response, he switched fuel tanks, turned on the fuel pump and carburetor heat, and reduced engine power. The engine subsequently lost total power, prompting the pilot to perform a forced landing to a highway.
Impact and Postimpact Fire
During the landing, the right wing impacted a light pole. The airplane then nosed over and came to rest inverted. A postimpact fire ensued and consumed a majority of the airplane.
Examination Findings
Both fuel tanks were breached and thermally damaged. The fuel selector was not located. Examination of the engine revealed no evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunctions or anomalies. Compression was obtained on each cylinder when the engine was rotated by hand at the crankshaft. The carburetor was intact and free of debris. The electric fuel pump was operational. The single-drive magneto was impact damaged but produced spark at each of the 12 leads.