Piper PA32 N6868D accident near Cincinnati, Ohio

Probable cause

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

NTSB analysis

The pilot and three passengers departed on a local flight. After reaching a cruise altitude of 4,500 ft mean sea level, the engine started to lose power. The pilot switched fuel tanks and tried to restart the engine several times but was unsuccessful in those attempts. She tried to return to the departure airport but realized she would not be able to reach the runway and maneuvered the airplane for a forced landing into trees. The airplane subsequently collided with the trees and came to rest on its tail section, resulting in substantial damage.

Postaccident examination of the engine confirmed continuity of the drivetrain and powertrain, with compression observed in each cylinder. The ignition system appeared intact and there was no evidence observed of any fuel or oil leakage. The examination did not reveal evidence of any anomalies that would have precluded normal operation and the reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.

Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for ERA23LA362 for the full record.