Connecting Rod Was Found Outside Of The Crankcase When The Engine Cowling Was Removed

Location: Topock, AZ Accident Number: WPR24FA054
Date & Time: December 10, 2023, 15:55 Local Registration: N4171S
Aircraft: Beech A36 Injuries: 1 Fatal
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On December 10, 2023, about 1555 mountain standard time, a Beechcraft A36, N4171S, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Topock, Arizona. The pilot was fatally injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 91 personal flight.

According to a family member the pilot was flying from Sun Valley Airport (A20), Bullhead City, Arizona to pick up a passenger from Prescott Regional Airport – Ernest A. Love Field (PRC), Prescott, Arizona. Automatic dependent surveillance-broadcast data showed the airplane departed from runway 36 at A20 about 1533. About 14 minutes after takeoff the pilot reported to Air Traffic Control (ATC) that he had lost oil pressure. Radio and radar contact were lost shortly after the reported loss of oil pressure.

The airplane subsequently impacted rocky desert terrain near an unimproved road. A post impact fire consumed the cockpit, right wing, and a portion of the fuselage. The empennage sustained minor damage and flight control continuity was confirmed from the cabin to each of the flight control surfaces. The engine remained attached to the airframe by avionics and control cables. A portion of the No. 4 cylinder piston connecting rod was found outside of the crankcase when the engine cowling was removed.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov