Accident Overview
Shortly after takeoff, the engine lost power and the airplane collided with terrain approximately one-quarter mile from the departure runway. Post-accident inspection of the aircraft and engine revealed no evidence of any inflight malfunction or failure.
Fuel Selector Valve Findings
Examination of the wreckage determined that the fuel selector valve handle was in the 'OFF' position. Piper Service Bulletin No. 840, which introduced a new fuel selector valve cover and mating handle designed to preclude inadvertent selection of the 'OFF' position, had not been complied with on this aircraft.
Pilot Experience
The pilot had logged only 1.2 hours in this make and model prior to the accident.
Inspection Results
A thorough inspection of the airframe and engine did not reveal any mechanical anomaly that would have prevented normal operation.