Accident Overview
The incident occurred shortly after takeoff when the engine lost power. The pilot made a shallow right turn, apparently preparing for a forced landing in a field. The engine then restarted, prompting the pilot to initiate a left turn, possibly to return to the runway. During this turn, the engine lost power again. Subsequently, the aircraft entered a steep descent and crashed.
Investigation
Investigators were unable to determine the cause of the engine power loss. However, at the airport where the aircraft, identified as N3721C, had been parked, several pilots reported finding insect nests in fuel vents, which caused blockage of those openings.
Sequence of Events
The loss of power occurred shortly after departure. With the engine failing, the pilot executed a shallow right turn, consistent with positioning for an emergency landing in a nearby field. The engine then regained power unexpectedly, and the pilot altered course with a left turn, as if aiming to return to the departure runway. The engine failed again during this maneuver. The aircraft subsequently descended steeply and impacted the ground.
Additional Information
While the specific cause of the failure remains unidentified, reports from other pilots at the same airport indicated that insect nests had been found blocking fuel vents. These reports highlight a potential issue but do not establish a direct link to this accident.