What happened
On September 27, 2025, at approximately 1600 mountain daylight time, a Vans RV-3A operated by Vanguard Squadron Inc was involved in an accident near Torrington, Wyoming. The aircraft, registration N16MR, departed from runway 10 under visual meteorological conditions with a visibility of 10 statute miles and winds from 120 degrees at 15 knots.
During the initial climb phase, the engine lost power. The pilot attempted to return to the runway but was unable to reach it, necessitating a forced landing in an open field located approximately 1/2 mile north of the runway. During the landing roll, the aircraft struck a berm and nosed over. The accident resulted in one serious injury to the pilot, with no fatalities.
The investigation
The aircraft sustained substantial damage to the vertical stabilizer and rudder. Following the accident, the airplane was recovered to a secure location for further examination.