Pilot... Was About 2,000 Ft Above The Ground When He Heard Two Loud “Booms” Followed By A Loss Of Engine Power

Location: Prescott Valley, AZ Accident Number: WPR25LA030
Date & Time: October 31, 2024, 16:20 UTC Registration: N154DC
Aircraft: Piper PA-32-300 Injuries: 1 None
Flight Conducted Under: Part 91: General aviation - Personal

On October 31, 2024, at 1620 mountain standard time, a Piper PA-32-300, N154DC, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Prescott Valley, Arizona. The pilot was not injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

According to the pilot he was about 2,000 ft above the ground when he heard two loud “booms” followed by a loss of engine power. Shortly after, smoke and flames appeared inside the cabin near the forward right-side floorboard area. The pilot successfully extinguished the fire with a fire extinguisher and performed a forced landing to an open field. The forward rightside area of the fuselage was substantially damaged. Preliminary examination of the engine revealed that the No. 3 cylinder was separated from the crankcase.

The airplane was retained for further examination.

FMI: www.ntsb.gov