Accident Details
According to the pilot, after takeoff, the aircraft climbed to 1,800 feet mean sea level (approximately 1,000 feet above ground level) and entered a left turn. During the turn, the engine failed. The pilot selected a dry flood control basin as a landing site. The aircraft's airspeed was low on final approach, resulting in a hard touchdown. The hard landing overstressed the airframe, leading to substantial damage.
Post-Accident Inspection
A post-accident inspection of the aircraft failed to disclose any mechanical failure or malfunction. The examination found no evidence of pre-impact engine or airframe issues.
Fuel Status
Fuel quantity measurements showed that the main fuel tanks were full. The left auxiliary tank was empty, and the right auxiliary tank contained a small amount of fuel.