Pilot Attempted To Restore Electrical And Engine Power, However, Was Unsuccessful

Location: Camarillo, CA Accident Number: WPR24LA081
Date & Time: January 30, 2024, 13:17 Local Registration: N906CR
Aircraft: Christopher Randall Raptor Junior 540 Injuries: 1 Serious, 1 Minor
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On January 30, 2024, about 1317 Pacific standard time, an experimental amateur-built Raptor Junior 540, N906CR, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Camarillo, California. The pilot received serious injuries and the pilot-rated passenger received minor injuries. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

According to the pilot, he and his pilot-rated passenger had departed Santa Monica Municipal Airport, Santa Monica, California, and were enroute to the Camarillo Airport (CMA), Camarillo, California, to conduct touch and go landings. Approximately 5 miles southeast of CMA, the pilot noticed a warning indication from the airplane’s avionics display alerting him to a loss of electrical power. He stated that within seconds, all electrical avionics with the exception of the primary flight display, “went blank” followed by a total loss of engine power. The pilot attempted to restore electrical and engine power, however, was unsuccessful. He initiated a forced landing to a field approximately 4.5 miles southeast of CMA. During the forced landing, the airplane struck terrain and came to rest upright. 

Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that the fuselage, canards, and both wings sustained substantial damage. The airplane was recovered to a secure facility for further examination.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov