Flight and Emergency
The pilot fueled the airplane before departure and flew without incident for approximately 30 minutes. The aircraft then descended to 2,000 feet on approach to the destination airport, operating under night visual meteorological conditions. About 30 seconds after receiving clearance for a visual approach, the pilot declared an emergency to air traffic control and requested assistance to the nearest airport. The controller provided a vector to divert and the distance to the nearest suitable airfield. Shortly thereafter, the pilot reported "engine out, engine out."
Accident and Wreckage
The airplane impacted wooded terrain approximately 4 miles northeast of runway 22 at the alternate airport. A post-crash fire consumed a majority of the wreckage. Investigators examined the wreckage, including a teardown examination of the engine, but found no preimpact mechanical malfunctions. However, the fuel system and ignition system were consumed by the fire and could not be tested.
Probable Cause
The official probable cause was determined to be a total loss of engine power during a night approach for undetermined reasons.