NTSB Factual Report

On November 12, 2017, about 1730 central standard time, a Cessna T210N airplane, N5300A, experienced a loss of engine power and landed short of runway 09 at Campbell Airport (C81), Grayslake, Illinois. The commercial rated pilot, who was the sole occupant, was not injured and the airplane sustained substantial damage. The airplane was registered to and operated by Runzel Brothers Aviation LLC under the provisions of 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a positioning flight. Night instrument meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident and the flight was operated on an instrument flight rules (IFR) flight plan. The airplane departed Pierre Regional Airport (PIR), Pierre, South Dakota, about 1440 and was en route to Chicago Executive Airport (PWK), Wheeling, Illinois.

The responding Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector stated that the pilot noticed a slight decrease in oil pressure, then heard a "bang" and noticed smoke in the cockpit. The pilot diverted to C81 and landed in a field short of runway 09. The airplane sustained substantial damage to the left horizontal stabilizer. A large hole was found in the engine crankcase near the No. 4 cylinder.

The airplane was retained for further examination.