What happened
The incident occurred during the initial climb phase following takeoff from an unprepared off-airport ridgetop landing area. Shortly after becoming airborne, the airplane impacted a bush with a two-inch diameter and four-foot height. The pilot reported smelling fuel prior to the engine stopping completely.
Following the loss of power, the pilot initiated a forced landing maneuver into the wooded terrain situated below the ridge. During this emergency descent and impact, the right landing gear mount sustained damage. Post-accident examination revealed that the engine gascolator had separated from the airframe and was located adjacent to the first bush struck during the initial climb.
The investigation
Examination of the wreckage indicated that the engine gascolator was detached from the airplane. It was recovered next to the first vegetation obstacle encountered after takeoff. The right landing gear mount showed damage consistent with the forced landing into trees below the ridge.