What happened
During a local flight carrying two passengers, the aircraft experienced a sudden loss of engine power. Witnesses near the departure site observed the engine backfiring and sputtering before it ceased operation entirely. According to the surviving passenger, the loss of power left the crew with no viable landing options. The aircraft subsequently crashed into a heavily wooded area located approximately one mile from the airport.
Findings
An examination of the engine following the accident identified several mechanical failures. Specifically, the intake valve for the No. 7 cylinder was found to be stuck in the open position. Additionally, the front spark plug for the No. 2 cylinder was defective, and the ignition wires for cylinders No. 2 and No. 4 were worn and frayed, showing signs of arcing. These combined issues caused the engine to run erratically and eventually led to total power loss. Investigators noted that an annual inspection performed roughly two months prior to the accident should have detected these engine anomalies.