No fatalities

Engine Failure and Stall on Go-Around Leads to Residential Building Crash (N3249Q)

Spirit Lake-Lake Okoboji, United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On July 11, 1980, a Cessna 401 (registration N3249Q) operated by Leonard Stoller was involved in an aviation accident near Spirit Lake-Lake Okoboji, United States of America during landing or approach. No fatalities were reported. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Powerplant failure for undetermined reasons. Contributing factors: pilot failed to maintain flying speed, improper emergency procedures, complete engine failure on engine, single engine go-around. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A).

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 2026-06-12Data APIEditorial standards

On final approach, an engine failed; the pilot attempted a go-around but the airplane stalled and crashed into a residential building, causing a fire that destroyed the aircraft and eight condominiums. Both occupants were injured; no ground injuries.

Incident Overview

During the final segment of an approach to Spirit Lake-Lake Okoboji Municipal Airport, one of the airplane's engines failed. The pilot decided to execute a go-around maneuver. However, the airplane subsequently stalled and crashed into a residential building located near the airport. The impact ignited a fire that engulfed the aircraft and eight condominiums, all of which were destroyed in the post-crash fire.

Injuries and Damage

Both individuals aboard the airplane sustained injuries. No injuries were reported among people on the ground. The aircraft was destroyed, and the fire spread to adjacent structures, resulting in the destruction of eight condominium units.

Probable Cause

The official investigation determined the probable cause to be a powerplant failure for undetermined reasons. Contributing factors included the pilot's failure to maintain flying speed, improper emergency procedures, a complete engine failure on the affected engine, and the attempted single-engine go-around.