Accident Overview
A private pilot, who had obtained his certificate approximately six weeks prior, was operating a Cessna 172. At the time of the accident, the pilot had logged about 53 total flight hours, with about 4 hours in the C-172, having just completed a checkout in the aircraft.
Flight and Maneuver
The pilot had taken his brother and a friend for a local-area flight lasting about one hour. Upon returning to the field, he entered a traffic pattern. During the turn from downwind to base, the pilot attempted to add power to correct for low altitude. However, the engine did not respond.
Emergency Landing
Unable to restore engine power, the pilot executed an off-airport landing in a plowed garden. During the landing, the airplane nosed over.
Post-Accident Inspection
Subsequently, the engine was inspected and a functional run was performed. It operated satisfactorily, with no anomalies detected.
Atmospheric Conditions
The atmospheric conditions at the time were favorable for the formation of carburetor ice. Examination of the carburetor heat control revealed it was found in the cold position.