Probable cause
The pilot’s failure to turn off the magneto switch before repositioning the propeller by hand which resulted in an inadvertent engine start.
NTSB analysis
After refueling the airplane, the engine failed to start after two attempts, and the pilot elected to reposition the propeller by hand. The magneto switch was left in the ON position, and the engine inadvertently started which resulted in a serious injury to the pilot’s arm. The unoccupied airplane then collided with a large metal sign and came to rest upright. The pilot reported that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airplane that would have precluded normal operation.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for CEN25LA243 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Jul 8, 2025
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Seguin, Texas
- Nearest airport
- Zuehl (1TE4)
- Highest injury
- Serious
- Serious injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Stinson 108
- N-number
- N97577
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1946
- 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.