Accident Summary
A solo private pilot was conducting a personal cross-country flight under 14 CFR Part 91. During the takeoff roll, the engine began running rough. The pilot applied carburetor heat and continued the takeoff because there was not enough runway remaining to stop. About 5 miles south of the airport, the engine lost all power. The pilot executed an emergency forced landing, during which the left wing struck a tree. The airplane came to rest inverted in a creek.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that prior to the flight, he had preheated the airplane engine. He reported no preaccident mechanical anomalies with the airplane. The pilot speculated that the power loss might have been due to ice in a gas line, restricted airflow to the carburetor from fresh snow, or possibly a stuck valve.
Damage
The airplane sustained structural damage to the wings and fuselage during the accident sequence.