What happened
The pilot became disoriented while conducting a local flight and landed at an unknown airport. Upon realizing his location, he attempted to depart and return to the intended destination but became disoriented again. The engine lost total power due to fuel exhaustion, forcing the pilot to land in an open area. After touchdown, the aircraft nosed over.
The investigation
The aircraft had been operated for 4.5 hours since the last refueling. It was equipped with two VOR receivers, which suggests navigation equipment was available but did not prevent the disorientation or fuel management error.
Findings
The primary factors were the pilot's loss of orientation and fuel exhaustion. The aircraft sustained damage from the nose-over after landing.