What happened
The pilot was conducting flight operations to the north at an altitude of approximately 20 feet above the ground when the engine suddenly ceased operation. According to the pilot, there were no preceding symptoms such as sputtering or warnings prior to the failure.
In response to the loss of power, the pilot attempted to manage the descent by checking the throttle and deploying the flaps to reduce airspeed. Due to the lack of a suitable landing area, the pilot maneuvered the aircraft into a wooded area. The aircraft struck a ditch during the maneuver, which caused the airplane to flip over.
The investigation
Mechanical examination of the engine identified that the bottom spark plugs were rusted and lead-fouled. Investigators also found that the fuel strainer filter was obstructed by debris consisting of dirt and rust. No anomalies were discovered in the other aircraft systems.
An audit of the airplane's maintenance records revealed that several required airworthiness directives had not been implemented. Furthermore, the investigation determined that multiple system items requiring annual inspections under 14 CFR part 43 had not been completed.