Accident Overview
During a traffic pattern, the airplane experienced a loss of engine power. The pilot reported being unable to restart the engine and, due to insufficient altitude to reach the runway, executed a forced landing onto a grass field.
Pilot Account
In post-accident interviews, the pilot stated that the engine had lost power because of fuel exhaustion. He noted that the right fuel tank contained 15 gallons of fuel but that he had forgotten to switch fuel tanks during the flight.
Fuel Recovery
Approximately six hours after the accident, about 20 gallons of fuel—10 gallons per wing tank—were drained from the airplane.
Aircraft Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed no pre-impact malfunctions of the airframe or engine.