What happened
On September 6, 2025, at approximately 0859 central daylight time, a Beech 35-C33, registration N1310A, was involved in an accident near Brookings, South Dakota. The aircraft was being operated under 14 CFR Part 91 for personal use.
Shortly after takeoff, at an altitude of approximately 200 to 300 feet, the pilot experienced a moderate vibration accompanied by an audible bang. Following this event, the pilot noted a decrease in engine power and thrust. While most engine instruments remained normal, the RPM gauge indicated 2,300 RPM instead of the standard 2,500 RPM.
The pilot attempted to turn back toward the airport by lowering the nose and applying full throttle, but the engine power did not respond to the throttle increase. After the stall horn activated, the pilot leveled the aircraft and targeted a grass clearing for an emergency landing.
During the landing, the passenger in the front right seat was knocked unconscious. Following the impact, a fire broke out and consumed much of the fuselage and parts of both wings. The pilot and the rear seat passenger were able to remove the unconscious passenger from the aircraft. The pilot and the conscious passenger then moved into tall, wet grass to distance themselves from the fire. There were 3 minor injuries reported, with 0 fatalities.
The investigation
The aircraft was recovered for further examination.