What happened
On August 13, 2025, at approximately 1835 central daylight time, a Cessna P210N, registration N92MS, was involved in an accident near Zapata, Texas. The aircraft was being operated under 14 CFR Part 91 for a personal flight.
According to the pilot, the flight proceeded normally until a turn was made to return to McAllen International Airport in McAllen, Texas. During this maneuver, the pilot experienced a severe engine vibration and a partial loss of engine power. Engine instruments indicated 0 inches of manifold pressure, high oil temperature, low oil pressure, and elevated temperatures in the No. 4 and No. 5 cylinders.
While attempting to divert to the Zapata County Airport, the engine suffered a total loss of power. The pilot was unable to reach the runway and performed an off-field landing on a dirt road. During the landing roll, the left wing of the aircraft struck a tree, causing the plane to veer left into a tree line. The impact resulted in substantial damage to both wings. The pilot and passenger were not injured.