19970507012869A

(.19) On may 7, 1997, at 2030 hours mountain standard time an ayers S2RT34, N4011G, experienced a power loss and made a subsequent off airport landing near Tonopah, Arizona. The aircraft sustained substantial damage; however, the pilot, the sole occupant, was not injured. The aircraft was being operated as an agricultural flight by pierce aviation under 14 CFR part 137 when the accident occurred. The flight originated in buckeye, Arizona, at 1930. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time and no flight plan was filed. The pilot reported that he was en route to the agricultural strip when the engine failed. He made a forced landing in an open field but struck an irrigation ditch during rollout. (.4) the pilot was en route back to his landing strip after night spraying when the aircraft lost engine power. He also saw flames and debris coming from the exhaust stacks. The circuit breaker popped when he attempted to turn on the wing lights so he continued the approach without lights. During rollout, the aircraft struck an unseen irrigation ditch and the gear collapsed. An inspection showed evidence of heat and blade damage to the power turb ine the fuel control adjustment was found in the full rich position. There was no evidence of FOD to the compressor rotor and stator assemblies. The engine had a hot section inspection as a result of a previous sudden engine stoppage incident.