Incident Sequence
The pilot primed the engine four times before attempting a start-up. The engine initially started but did not continue running. The pilot then primed the engine two more times and attempted a restart, but the engine failed to restart. Shortly thereafter, the pilot observed smoke emanating from the engine area.
Fire and Response
The pilot exited the airplane and saw a fire in the engine area. An attempt was made to extinguish the fire using a fire extinguisher. However, strong winds accelerated the spread of the fire, and the airplane was ultimately consumed by the flames.
Examination
A post-accident examination of the wreckage could not determine the exact origin of the fire. The reported wind at the airport, around the time of the accident, was from 280 degrees at 11 knots, gusting to 21 knots.