Accident Details
The pilot purchased the airplane on the day of the accident and added 45 gallons of fuel. Before departure, he took four fuel samples from the left tank, finding water contamination only after the fourth sample. The right tank showed no contamination. After takeoff, the engine ran roughly, prompting the pilot to return to the airfield. On the ground, the engine smoothed out. The pilot departed again, stopping once for minor maintenance before continuing.
En route, the fuel pressure dropped and the engine again began running rough. Unable to maintain altitude, the pilot executed a forced landing to a road.
Forced Landing and Aftermath
After landing, the pilot deplaned, spoke with several people, and made a telephone call. Subsequently, he reported feeling cold and faint, then collapsed. Efforts to revive him were unsuccessful.
Inspection Findings
During inspection of the airplane's fuel system, about 3 ounces of dirty water were drained from the left wing. Fuel from the right wing was free of contaminants. Fuel injector lines initially produced rust-colored fuel containing water. Filtered fuel left a pink, paraffin-like residue.
Medical Findings
An autopsy revealed the pilot had an enlarged heart and severe coronary arteriosclerosis with arteriosclerotic heart disease.