What happened
During the flight, a passenger seated in the co-pilot's position observed flames emanating from the engine and right wing area. The observer noted a distinct glow visible beneath the aircraft's wing skin. In response to the developing emergency, the pilot executed a forced landing onto a freeway. During the descent and landing sequence, the aircraft collided with a light pole located within the highway median.
As a result of the accident, the pilot was killed and one passenger sustained serious injuries.
Findings
Post-accident investigations revealed significant fire damage concentrated in the right flap assembly and the rear portion of the right engine nacelle. Extensive soot and fire damage were also identified inside the right wing structure. The investigation concluded that a leak within the fuel system triggered the in-flight fire, though the specific source of the leak remained unidentified.