Probable cause
A total loss of engine power for reasons that could not be determined because postaccident examination did not reveal any evidence of preimpact mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.
NTSB analysis
About 3 minutes after takeoff, the engine started to run roughly. The private pilot contacted the tower controller and advised that he was turning back to the runway. While on short final, he pulled back on the power, and the engine lost total power. The pilot was able to restart the engine, but it again lost total power. The airplane was unable to reach the runway, and the pilot subsequently initiated a forced landing to a street, during which, the airplane struck a moving car and numerous parked vehicles.
A postaccident engine test run did not reveal any evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures that would have precluded normal operation. The reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR16LA074 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Feb 22, 2016
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Pacoima, California
- Nearest airport
- Whiteman (WHP)
- Highest injury
- None
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Mooney M20J
- N-number
- N201KY
- Category
- Airplane
- Year built
- 1978
- 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.