Synopsis
A pilot reported that after landing at Ozark, Arkansas, no fuel was available at that location. He therefore proceeded to obtain fuel at Clarksville, Arkansas, a distance of about 15 miles. The flight ended with the aircraft striking transmission lines and making a forced landing on a highway median, where the nose gear sheared off.
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, after takeoff from Ozark, he encountered moderate turbulence. He leveled the aircraft at about 600 feet and reduced power in an attempt to reduce the bouncing. While doing so, he became preoccupied with locating the town of Clarksville and its airport on the sectional chart. As he was focusing on the chart, he felt the aircraft sink. He immediately applied full power, but the sink continued. Shortly thereafter, the aircraft struck transmission lines. The pilot stated that he had not seen the lines prior to impact. After hitting the lines, he performed a forced landing on a highway median. During the landing, the nose gear sheared off.
Pilot's Account
The pilot noted that this was his first time flying over mountainous terrain and in its associated turbulence. He did not report any other factors or conditions contributing to the event.