Accident Sequence
The aircraft's nose gear collapsed during a forced landing following an engine failure at 300 feet above ground level (AGL) during takeoff. The pilot reported that the engine quit suddenly with a warning at that altitude.
Witness Observations
Witnesses on the airport stated they heard the engine misfiring and backfiring severely during the takeoff roll, to the extent that they were certain the pilot would abort the takeoff.
Investigation Findings
A post-accident examination revealed that the auxiliary fuel pump switch was found in the OFF position. The ON position is required for takeoff and landing according to standard procedures. The investigation noted that failure to use the auxiliary fuel pump and to adjust the mixture for takeoff would result in the symptoms described by the witnesses, including engine misfiring and backfiring.
Probable Cause
The probable cause of the accident is the failure to use the auxiliary fuel pump and adjust the mixture for takeoff, leading to the engine malfunction and subsequent emergency landing.