What happened
On December 3, 2025, at approximately 16:00 CST, a Mooney M20K, registration N57229, was involved in an accident near Foley, Alabama. The aircraft was operating under 14 CFR Part 91 for personal use.
The flight originated from Foley Municipal Airport (5R4) at Holk Field with 54 gallons of fuel. While flying north at 4,500 feet MSL, the pilot performed various practice maneuvers, including steep turns. During the flight, the pilot transitioned the fuel selector tank position twice at 30-minute intervals and a third time during the return leg.
Following the third fuel selector change, the aircraft suffered a total loss of engine power. Unable to return to the departure airport, the pilot diverted toward Bay Minette Municipal Airport (1R8). The pilot established a best glide speed of 80 knots and attempted to follow the "engine out" checklist, but failed to restore power. The aircraft subsequently performed an off-field landing in a farm pasture. During the landing, the aircraft struck a barbed wire fence, which sheared the landing gear, before skidding to a stop on rough terrain.
The pilot sustained 1 minor injury and was not killed in the accident.
The investigation
An FAA inspector recovered an engine data monitor, which was sent to the N/TSB recorders laboratory for downloading. The wreckage was retained for further examination.