What happened
While attempting to enter the traffic pattern for landing, a Cessna (type not specified in source) experienced engine roughness followed by a total loss of power. The pilot initially attempted to continue toward the airport after the engine briefly restarted, but the engine failed a second time.
Seeking a safe location, the pilot performed an emergency landing in an open field. During the landing rollout on uneven and heavily vegetated terrain, the aircraft's nose lifted. The left main landing gear struck brush and the top of a dune, causing the gear to collapse. The aircraft ultimately came to rest inverted. There were no injuries reported following the accident.
The investigation
Investigators conducted a visual inspection of the engine and performed an engine run test. No mechanical anomalies were identified during these procedures.