Probable cause
The loss of engine power and the pilot's subsequent loss of control for undetermined reasons.
NTSB analysis
During the night flight, the pilot reported a loss of engine power to air traffic controllers and requested assistance locating the nearest airport. About 18 nautical miles from the airport, the pilot stated to the controllers that the twin engine airplane's left engine had lost power and that he was attempting to maintain altitude. Later, the pilot stated that he was unsure if he would be able to make the airport. The airplane impacted trees and terrain about a mile from the runway. A postaccident examination of the airplane disclosed no anomalies that would explain the loss of engine power.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN10FA322 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 17, 2010
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Rochester, Minnesota
- Nearest airport
- Rochester International Airpor (RST)
- Highest injury
- Fatal
- Fatal injuries
- 3
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Night
Piper PA-23
- N-number
- N7SE
- Category
- Airplane
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.