Accident Overview
On October 3, 2025, at approximately 1720 central daylight time, a Cessna 182RG airplane, registration N4609S, was substantially damaged during an accident near Cottonville, Iowa. The pilot, the sole occupant, reported no injuries. The flight was operated under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Sequence of Events
The pilot reported that during cruise flight, the engine rpm increased unexpectedly. He attempted to increase the propeller pitch to reduce engine rpm, but there was no response from the engine. The pilot declared an emergency with air traffic control and received clearance to descend to 4,000 ft mean sea level (msl) and proceed to Dubuque Regional Airport in Dubuque, Iowa.
While leveling off at 4,000 ft msl, the pilot heard a sound similar to an engine misfire. Immediately afterward, the engine began shaking violently and running rough as the airplane started a rapid descent. The pilot checked the engine oil pressure gauge and observed it had dropped to zero.
Forced Landing and Damage
The pilot executed a forced landing onto a road. During the landing rollout, the left wing struck the shoulder of the road. The airplane departed the roadway and impacted a barbed wire fence. The accident resulted in substantial damage to the right-wing strut, right horizontal stabilizer, and fuselage.
Post-Accident Actions
The airplane was retained for further examination to determine the cause of the engine failure.