(Pilot) Heard A Loud Popping Sound Immediately Followed By Flames Both Inside And Outside The Engine Cowling

Location: Bolivar, MO Accident Number: CEN25LA295
Date & Time: July 28, 2025, 18:00 Local Registration: N8243M
Aircraft: Cessna 182P Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On July 28, 2025, at about 1800 central daylight time, a Cessna 182P, N8243M, was destroyed when it was involved in an accident near Bolivar, Missouri. The pilot was not injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight. 

The pilot reported that when he advanced the throttle to initiate a taxi away from his hangar, he heard a loud popping sound immediately followed by flames both inside and outside the engine cowling. The pilot quickly closed the fuel shut-off valve, turned the master switch to the off position, and exited towards his nearby vehicle. The airplane was fully engulfed in fire by the time the pilot returned with a fire extinguisher from his vehicle.

Postaccident examination revealed an engine fuel primer line melted and fused to the alternator output wire.

The airplane and associated components were retained for further examination. 

FMI: www.ntsb.gov