What happened
During cruise flight while operating on a VFR/IFR flight plan, the aircraft began to accumulate ice. During this period, the crew was unable to maintain altitude, and power was reported lost to one of the engines. The pilot subsequently performed a forced landing into a wooded area.
The weather conditions at the time involved IFR conditions with heavy snow. The temperature and dew point were both recorded at 21 degrees.
The investigation
Investigators examined both engines following the accident, but no mechanical malfunctions were discovered. According to the pilot, carburetor heat was applied after the loss of power to one engine.