Incident Details
The flight was in cruise under an instrument flight plan when a total loss of power occurred. Conditions included light drizzle and icing. The pilot attempted to restart the engine during the subsequent forced landing. Throughout the emergency descent toward the nearest airport, the pilot remained in communication with air traffic control.
Environmental Conditions
The accident occurred during dark night. The pilot reported not breaking out of the weather until nearly reaching the ground.
Landing
The landing area consisted of rough, uneven open prairie. The airplane sustained damage during the landing.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the powerplant after the accident revealed water in the fuel system. Specifically, water was found in the delivery line between the engine-driven fuel pump and the fuel control valve. Additionally, water was present in the intake manifold. The water was drained, and the engine was test-run without incident.
Pilot Awareness
When questioned by the FAA, the pilot indicated they were unaware of the published fuel tank sumping procedure for trapping water at the bottom of the cells.