What happened
At approximately 1045, while engaged in agricultural spraying operations, the pilot reported smelling fuel within the cockpit. In response to this smell, the pilot began a climb out of the field. However, upon reaching an altitude of 100 feet, the engine lost power.
The pilot executed a right turn toward a small clearing to prepare for an emergency landing. During the maneuver, the aircraft successfully cleared power lines and a highway before impacting rough terrain at a slightly nose-down attitude. Following the impact, the aircraft skidded approximately 50 feet before coming to a complete stop. The pilot was not injured.
The pilot noted that the last refueling of the aircraft occurred on August 28, 2000, and admitted that a physical check of the fuel was not performed prior to this flight. No mechanical malfunctions were reported by the pilot before the power loss.