What happened
On May 17, 2025, at 10:22 Pacific daylight time, a North American T-28B, registration N28DE, was involved in an accident near Marysville, California. The aircraft was operating under 14 CFR Part 91 as a personal flight for the Hmong Memorial Foundation.
The flight originated from Yuba County Airport (MYV) in Olivehurst, California, with the intent of performing a flyover at the same airport for the operator's organization. During the flight, the engine began surging. In response to the engine issues, the pilot attempted to return to the airport but ultimately elected to land on a nearby dirt road.
During the landing sequence, a wing of the aircraft struck a berm, causing the airplane to spin. The impact resulted in 2 serious injuries to the pilot and passenger, with 0 fatalities. The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the wings and fuselage.
The investigation
The wreckage was retained for examination.