What happened
On July 27, 2024, at approximately 13:58 EDT, a Piper J3 and C-65, registration N77522, was involved in an accident near Groveland, Florida. The aircraft was operating under 14 CFR Part 91 for personal use.
The flight originated from Gore Airport (4FL9) in Haines City, Florida, with 17 gallons of fuel on board. After landing at Williston Municipal Airport (X60), the pilot attempted to refuel but found the fuel pumps were inoperable. After calculating the remaining fuel, the pilot departed for a destination flight.
Approximately one hour into the flight, the engine suffered a complete loss of power. Despite the pilot's attempts to troubleshoot the engine, power could not be restored. The aircraft descended into a tree canopy in a wooded area approximately 31 miles northwest of Gore Airport. The pilot and passenger sustained 2 minor injuries, and there were 0 fatalities.
The investigation
An inspection of the wreckage by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector showed that the aircraft sustained substantial damage to the fuselage and the right wing. The wreckage was kept for further examination.