Accident Overview
On November 17, 2023, at approximately 1524 central standard time, a Piper PA32-300 airplane, registration N16253, was substantially damaged during an accident near Ozark, Missouri. The pilot, the sole occupant, received minor injuries. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Flight and Fuel Management
The pilot reported that before departing from Quincy Regional Airport–Baldwin Field (UIN), Quincy, Illinois, the airplane's four fuel tanks were filled. During the flight, the pilot used the fuel tanks sequentially: 30 minutes on the left tank, 30 minutes on the left tip tank, and approximately 20 to 25 minutes on the right tip tank. At that point, the engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot then switched to the right main tank and attempted to restart the engine, but was unable to restore power.
Forced Landing and Impact
Unable to restore engine power, the pilot performed a forced landing to a field. During the approach, the airplane collided with a power line, then impacted terrain and came to rest inverted. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and wings.
Postaccident Examination
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the wreckage. Adequate fuel was found in all fuel lines and fuel tanks except the left tip tank, which had been breached. The fuel selector operated normally, and the detents for each tank position were identifiable during rotation. A postaccident examination of the engine revealed no mechanical anomalies. Residual fuel from the fuel servo tested negative for water. However, when functionally tested, the magnetos did not produce spark, as water was found in the magnetos. The wreckage had been stored outside since the accident.