Accident Overview
A pilot reported that the engine lost power and the airplane was unable to maintain altitude. Despite efforts to sustain altitude, the pilot selected an emergency landing area. The aircraft subsequently executed a forced landing in a wooded location, touching down approximately two miles short of the runway. The airplane sustained damage during the landing.
Pilot Actions
According to the pilot, the initial event was a loss of engine power that prevented the aircraft from maintaining altitude. Attempts by the pilot to restore altitude were unsuccessful, leading to the decision to identify an emergency landing site.
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed a loose fuel line fitting. The fitting was still attached but observed to be loose. The right fuel tank contained no fuel, while fuel was recovered from the left fuel tank. No fuel was present in the gascolator. However, fuel was found leaking from the engine compartment after the accident.