N4945U

On July 5, 1994, at 0900 central daylight time, a Cessna 206E, N4945U, was substantially damaged during a forced landing near Cleveland, Texas. The commercial pilot was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed for the personal cross country flight.

The pilot reported that he departed Ruston Municipal Airport, Ruston, Louisiana at 0800. He further reported that following approximately one hour en route, the flight descended from 4,500 feet MSL to 1,500 feet MSL for landing at David Wayne Hooks Airport, Spring, Texas. Just as cruise was established, a total loss of engine power occurred. The pilot switched fuel tanks and activated the fuel boost pump. He made a decision that he was committed to landing and selected a field. The field was bordered by a fence, fence posts, and trees. Prior to touchdown the pilot turned off the fuel selector and the electrical system.

During the landing flare/touchdown the airplane struck a fence and a fence post. During the landing roll the airplane hit another fence and several trees. Upon hitting the trees the left wing separated from the airframe. The airplane came to rest inverted on a measured magnetic heading of 140 degrees.

Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspectors examined the airplane at the accident site. The left wing fuel tank integrity was compromised. Physical evidence of fuel was present. Fuel was found in the right wing and the gascolator.