Accident Overview
On November 17, 2024, at about 1110 Pacific standard time, a Piper PA-32-300, registration N617ET, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Pomona, California. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.
Flight and Events
The pilot departed Apple Valley Airport (APV) in Apple Valley, California, with an intended destination of Brackett Field Airport (POC) in La Verne, California. Approximately 10 miles from POC, the pilot contacted the POC Air Traffic Control Tower. The controller initially instructed the pilot to enter the right downwind leg of the traffic pattern for runway 26R, then revised instructions to enter the pattern on the base leg for the same runway.
After performing pre-landing checklist items with no anomalies observed, the pilot was cleared to land. Upon turning onto final approach, the engine lost power. The pilot switched fuel tanks and checked the fuel boost pump but was unable to restore engine power. Attempting to land on a road west of the Pomona Fairplex, the airplane descended into a parking lot and struck multiple unoccupied vehicles before coming to rest upright about 1,000 feet from the approach end of runway 26R.
Damage and Injuries
Both wings, fuselage, and stabilator were substantially damaged. The pilot and two passengers sustained minor injuries; one passenger sustained serious injuries. The wreckage was recovered to a secure facility for further examination.