What happened
On April 9, 2025, at approximately 1505 EDT, a Beech A36, registration N2Z, was involved in an accident near Fredericksburg, Virginia. The flight was being conducted under 14 CFR Part 91 from Leesburg Executive Airport (JYO) to Hampton Roads Executive Airport (PVG).
During the flight, the aircraft experienced a loss of oil pressure, which was followed by a total loss of engine power. The pilot attempted to perform an emergency landing in a field but overshot the target area. During the maneuver, the left wing struck a tree at the edge of the field, causing the aircraft to roll over and strike a second tree. The accident resulted in 2 minor injuries to the pilot and a pilot-rated passenger; there were 0 fatalities.
The investigation
An inspection by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed a hole in the top of the engine crankcase. Additionally, the connecting rod for the No. 4 cylinder was found to be fragmented. The wreckage was kept for further examination.