What happened
Shortly after takeoff, at an altitude of approximately 100 feet above the ground, the engine suffered a complete loss of power. In an attempt to avoid hitting utility wires, the pilot executed a left turn. The aircraft subsequently impacted terrain in a field located adjacent to the airport. There were no fatalities or injuries reported.
The investigation
A Federal Aviation Administration Inspector examined the wreckage and found no evidence of mechanical malfunctions occurring prior to the impact. During the inspection, the inspector noted that the fuel selector valve was in the 'OFF' position. No fuel was detected within the carburetor bowl or the fuel strainer, though the inspector confirmed that neither the strainer nor the bowl had been damaged during the accident.
Interviews with rescue personnel yielded no reports of anyone moving the fuel selector after the crash. The inspector also noted that the metal skin surrounding the fuel selector was buckled, but there were no scrape marks found near the valve. When questioned regarding the position of the fuel selector before takeoff, the pilot could not recall its setting.