What happened
During a private cross-country flight, the pilot contacted air traffic control to request a diversion to the nearest airport due to a suspected issue with the fuel pump. While the pilot did not declare an emergency, the request was made as a precaution. As the aircraft type approached the diversion airfield, observers noted the plane flying at a low altitude and rolling toward the left before striking the ground, which subsequently caught fire.
Data from the accident site showed the aircraft was traveling southwest at approximately 98 knots at the time of the final radar contact. Although this speed was above the minimum control speed for single-engine flight, the combination of engine torque and wind conditions likely required a higher airspeed to maintain stability. The aircraft ultimately lost control and rolled toward the side of the feathered engine.
Findings
Investigators determined that the left engine had been placed in the feathered position, while the right engine remained operational at a high RPM. A detailed inspection of the fuel pump revealed that the engine-driven component had suffered a fracture caused by the fatigue failure of the pressure relief valve. This failure led to fluctuating fuel pressure, which the pilot could not manually bypass or shut off. Evidence of wear on the pump components suggested that previous attempts had been made to troubleshoot similar fuel pressure issues.
Additionally, the pilot's toxicology report showed the presence of several medications, including cetirizine, sumatriptan, gabapentin, topiramate, and duloxetine. Because these substances affect the central nervous system, the investigation concluded that the pilot was likely experiencing impairment from the combination of these drugs, which prevented a successful response to the mechanical emergency and the safe completion of the landing.