Accident Details
On July 2, 2024, at about 1200 Pacific daylight time, a Cessna 172N, registration N74C, was substantially damaged during a forced landing at Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport (MYF) in San Diego, California. The pilot, who was the sole occupant, sustained minor injuries. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Pilot's Account
According to the pilot, he completed a preflight inspection, started the engine, and taxied to the run-up area for Runway 28R. After performing the pre-takeoff engine run-up and checklist, he taxied to and departed from Runway 28R, intending to exit the airport area via the downwind leg of the traffic pattern. During the right turn from crosswind to downwind, at about 1,000 feet above ground level, he heard a loud "pop" and observed brown smoke emanating from the engine compartment. The airplane began to shake and subsequently lost engine power.
Emergency Response
The pilot made several attempts to contact the tower controller before declaring an emergency. The controller cleared the airplane to land on Runway 10L. The pilot executed the engine failure checklist and touched down on Runway 10L. However, the airplane overran the departure end of the runway and nosed over.
Damage and Investigation
Postaccident examination revealed damage to the engine mount and both wings. The recorded weather at MYF about seven minutes before the accident indicated wind from 240° at 6 knots. The airplane has been transported to a secure facility for further investigation.
No probable cause has been determined at this time.