Probable cause
A total loss of engine power due to water contamination in the fuel. Contributing to the accident was the pilot's failure to check the fuel during the preflight, and failure to check the fuel storage tank’s fuel filter/water separator.
NTSB analysis
The engine lost power during the approach for landing and the restart attempt was unsuccessful. The pilot attempted to make a forced landing on a narrow gravel road. The left wing struck the top of a tree; the airplane spun around and impacted the ground. The wings received substantial damage. Post-accident examination revealed water in the fuel, in the carburetor, and in the storage supply tank. The pilot surmised that the water was likely due to recent heavy rain showers. He admitted he failed to check the fuel when he preflighted the airplane, and overlooked checking the fuel storage tank’s fuel filter/water separator.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN13CA315 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jun 3, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Cookson, Oklahoma
- Nearest airport
- Tenkiller Lake (44M)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built CCK
- N-number
- N319MA
- 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.