Accident Details
On August 16, 2020, at approximately 1300 central daylight time, a Beech A36 airplane, registration N3256V, was substantially damaged when it crashed near San Benito, Texas. The pilot, the sole occupant, was seriously injured. The aircraft was operated under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Pilot Account
The pilot reported that shortly after takeoff from Kornegay Private Airport (53XS), the engine experienced a partial power loss. He then activated the electric fuel pump, after which the engine lost all power. Attempting to return to the private airport, the pilot landed short in a cotton field with the landing gear retracted. The forward fuselage sustained substantial damage.
Postaccident Examination
Following the removal of the airplane from the accident site, a postaccident examination was conducted on the airframe, engine, and associated systems. No preimpact anomalies were found in any of these components.
Probable Cause
The investigation did not state a probable cause for this accident.