Incident Overview
While on final approach, the pilot advanced the throttle, but the engine power did not increase. The pilot subsequently executed a forced landing in a soybean field. During the landing, the airplane contacted a ditch, causing the nose gear to collapse. The airplane then continued across a road, where it struck two sign posts.
Inspection Findings
A post-accident inspection revealed no failure or malfunction that would have prevented normal operation of the engine. However, the spark plugs were noted to be sooted. The engine was tested after the accident and functioned normally.
Weather Conditions
The recorded temperature and dew point were 68 degrees Fahrenheit and 56 degrees Fahrenheit, respectively. These conditions are conducive to moderate icing at cruise power or serious icing at glide power.
Conclusion
The accident sequence involved a loss of engine power on final approach, a forced landing in a field, and subsequent ground contact. The cause of the power loss was not identified during the inspection.