Primary finding
Probable cause
A power loss for undetermined reasons. A factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
At approximately 1,500 feet msl the engine lost power. The pilot made a forced landing to a golf course active with golfers. The left wing hit the top of a bunker and the airplane cartwheeled, coming to rest inverted. An examination of the engine by the federal aviation administration inspectors indicated the engine had seized
Source record
Factual narrative
On April 22, 1993, at approximately 1830 central daylight time, during a forced landing near Conroe, Texas, a Tuttle Star Lite, N319JR, was destroyed when it impacted the terrain. Minor injuries were sustained by the private pilot. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the local personal flight. The pilot reported the information in this paragraph during interviews conducted by the Federal Aviation Administration inspectors. At approximately 1,500 feet MSL, the engine lost power over unsuitable terrain. The left wing struck a bunker and the airplane cartwheeled, coming to rest inverted. An on site examination of the airplane conducted by the inspectors confirmed that the engine was seized. The airplane was released to the owner following the investigation. -