Probable cause
A loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined because postaccident examination did not reveal any anomalies that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB analysis
The pilot reported that he was on a short cross-country flight when he felt a slight vibration in the airplane. An instrument panel scan revealed that the engine's cylinder head temperatures had risen above 450 degrees F. The pilot diverted toward the nearest airport, but the engine lost power before the airplane reached the airport. During the forced landing in a cornfield, both wings sustained substantial damage. A postaccident engine examination and test run revealed no evidence of any preimpact anomalies with the engine that would have prevented normal operation. The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR13LA353 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Aug 1, 2013
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Brentwood, California
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 1
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Amateur-built GPA-2
- N-number
- N199BW
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1993
- 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.