What happened
The pilot began aerial spraying operations between 0530 and 0600 CDT on the morning of the accident. After performing several spraying passes, the pilot departed the airport to service a new load of chemicals but did not refuel the aircraft before continuing the mission.
While flying toward a field at an altitude of approximately 100 to 150 feet above ground level, the engine stopped running. In response to the engine failure, the pilot attempted to locate a suitable landing site and chose a muddy field. During the maneuvers required to land in the field, the airplane entered a stall. While the pilot was attempting to recover from the stall, the aircraft struck the ground. The pilot was not injured.
Findings
The investigation identified fuel exhaustion as the likely reason for the engine failure, as the pilot noted the aircraft had not been refueled after the initial load of chemicals was depleted. Additionally, the pilot identified fatigue as a significant factor contributing to the circumstances surrounding the accident.