Accident Sequence
The accident occurred during the initial takeoff climb. At an estimated altitude of 60 to 80 feet above ground level, the engine lost power. The pilot responded by lowering the nose and making a slight left turn in an attempt to perform an emergency landing in a field adjacent to the airport.
The airplane touched down hard in a level attitude while still within the airport property, approximately 25 to 30 feet short of the perimeter fence. After touchdown, the airplane rolled on the ground for 2 to 3 seconds before going through a barbed wire fence. Subsequently, the nose wheel impacted a ditch, causing the aircraft to nose over.
Examination Findings
Following the accident, the fuel system was examined. Water was present in the fuel gascolator, as well as in the right wing fuel cell. Fluid drained from the airplane was tested by an independent laboratory, which confirmed that the fluid was drinking water.
No other contributing factors were identified in the investigation report.