What happened
On July 16, 2025, at 14:02 CST, a Beech K35, registration N5353E, was involved in an accident near Sylacauga, Alabama. The aircraft was being operated under 14 CFR Part 91 for personal use.
Approximately one hour after departure, the pilot observed that the number one cylinder head temperature had dropped below 300 degrees, accompanied by a high exhaust gas temperature. Following this observation, the engine began running roughly. The pilot attempted to cycle the ignition switch, but the engine condition did not improve.
The pilot contacted air traffic control to divert to Northeast Alabama Regional Airport (GAD) in Gadsden, Alabama, but subsequently declared an emergency. After receiving radar vectors to Merkel Field Sylacauga Municipal Airport (SCD), the aircraft was unable to maintain altitude. The pilot performed a forced landing into wooded terrain approximately one mile west of SCD.
The aircraft came to rest in an inverted position. The impact resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage, both wings, and the empennage. The pilot sustained one serious injury.