Piper PA32RT N10KV accident near Vinemont, Alabama

Probable cause

A loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined.

NTSB analysis

The purpose of the flight was a pre-sale demonstration of the airplane with the owner/seller in the right seat, and the potential buyer in the left seat. The pilots performed one touch-and-go landing, then the airplane impacted terrain on the downwind leg of the subsequent traffic pattern. The owner told first responders that the airplane had lost engine power. The airplane was consumed by a postcrash fire, which resulted in extensive damage to the airframe and engine. Postaccident examination of the airplane revealed that the fuel selector was in the “off” position. There were no mechanical malfunctions or anomalies that would have precluded normal operation of the airplane or engine, and the reason for the loss of engine power was not determined.

The owner’s postaccident toxicology was positive for gabapentin, which can cause dizziness; however, he reported no side effects from use of this medication, and it is unlikely that his use of gabapentin contributed to the accident.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA21FA133 for the full record.