N9245V

On November 25, 2024, about 1355 Pacific standard time, a Mooney M20F, N9245V, was substantially damaged when it was involved in an accident near Fullerton Municipal Airport (FUL), Fullerton, California. The pilot and pilot-rated passenger were seriously injured. The airplane was operated as a Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 personal flight.

According to the pilot, they departed Brackett Field Airport (POC), La Verne, California, with the intent of performing instrument work. The pilot reported that the flight to FUL was uneventful. After they conducted a full stop landing, they taxied back to runway 24 for departure. After takeoff, they began a left turn to depart the airport traffic pattern. A short time later, the engine began to run rough, and they attempted to return to FUL. While on base leg to runway 24, the engine lost total power. The pilot stated that they were unable to make it to the runway, and initiated a forced landing to a road about 1,000 ft from the runway. During the landing sequence, the airplane struck a light pole, fire hydrant and a tree. Both wings sustained substantial damage.

The wreckage has been retained for further examination.