The Wreckage Was Found In A Heavily Wooded Area About 4 Miles From The Departure Airport

Location: Dowagiac, Michigan Accident Number: CEN23FA410
Date & Time: September 10, 2023, 12:00 Local Registration: N569SX
Aircraft: Sonex Aircraft Sonex Aircraft Damage: Substantial
Defining Event: Loss of engine power (total) Injuries: 1 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

Analysis: The pilot departed for a local flight and an alert notice (ALNOT) was issued when the pilot did not return. A search effort concluded four days later when the wreckage was found in a heavily wooded area about 4 miles from the departure airport. No ADS-B data associated with the airplane, or the accident flight was available. At the time of the on-scene examination, the transponder was observed in the OFF position. 

Impact signatures on the propeller were consistent with the propeller not rotating at impact. Examination of the engine revealed that the ignition distributor rotor was fractured and disconnected from its driveshaft. This resulted in a total loss of engine power when the ignition system became inoperative due to the rotor failure. No other preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures were found with the airframe or engine. 

Probable Cause and Findings: The National Transportation Safety Board determines the probable cause(s) of this accident to be -- The total loss of engine power due to the failure of the ignition distributor rotor.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov