On July 12, 1982, a Republic RC-3 (registration N6444K) operated by William R. Aikens was involved in an aviation accident near Saginaw, MI. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.
A pilot reported taking off with 35 gallons of fuel. After 128 nautical miles, the engine lost power. The aircraft landed gear-up in a muddy corn field, slid, and nosed over.
Accident Details
The pilot stated that the aircraft departed with 35 gallons of fuel aboard. After traveling approximately 128 nautical miles, the engine lost power. During the subsequent landing in a muddy corn field, the pilot landed with the landing gear retracted. The aircraft slid a short distance and then nosed over.
Post-Accident Observations
One of the first persons to arrive at the scene reported that he could not recall smelling fuel at that time. The following morning, after the aircraft had remained inverted overnight, the same person noted that the fuel cap was dangling by its chain. He did not recall the cap dangling on the previous night. It was also observed that the aircraft had been broken into overnight and several articles had been removed.
Engine Inspection
An inspection and operational check of the engine revealed no preimpact failures.