Accident Details
The pilot reported that the engine lost power while the airplane was in cruise flight at an altitude of 4,500 feet above mean sea level. The pilot attempted to restart the engine, but the engine did not restart. He then initiated a forced landing. To avoid impacting power lines, he was forced to land in a heavy vine patch. The airplane sustained substantial damage as a result of the forced landing.
Post-Accident Examination
Following the accident, an FAA inspector examined the aircraft. During the inspection, the fuel selector switch was found positioned to the left tank. The inspector stated that the left fuel tank appeared empty. Additionally, a mechanic who removed the airplane from the crash site reported that there was no evidence of residual fuel coming from the fuel lines when he removed the left wing. However, when the mechanic removed the right wing, there was fuel remaining.
Probable Cause
No probable cause was identified in the accident report.