Accident Details
The private pilot departed Farmington at approximately 1500 for a cross-country flight to Canyonlands, Utah, Page, Arizona, and then back to Farmington, arriving at approximately 1800. Upon return, the pilot requested clearance from the tower to perform several take-offs and landings. He completed nine such maneuvers, each a full stop followed by a taxi-back and subsequent take-off, as required by a local training policy. At approximately 1910, the pilot contacted the tower to request clearance for a tenth take-off and pattern flight. At approximately 1915, the pilot reported a loss of engine power.
Witness Observations
Witnesses observed the airplane flying at a low altitude when its wings began to dip side to side. The airplane then pitched nose-up, rolled over, dove, and struck the roof of a police station.
Examination Findings
An examination of the airplane revealed approximately 4 gallons of fuel in the right wing tank, fuel in the fuel strainer, and no fuel in the lines. No other anomalies were found.