Accident Overview
The pilot had flown the airplane to the airport two days prior and parked it. On the day of the accident, the airplane was fueled with 33.1 gallons of fuel. The pilot conducted a "thorough" preflight inspection, which included taking fuel samples from the sump drains.
Takeoff and Initial Climb
During takeoff from runway 26, the pilot smelled smoke but elected not to abort the takeoff due to insufficient remaining runway. The airplane climbed to an altitude of 500 feet when the pilot felt that "things just weren't right" and decided to return to the airport. As he banked the airplane to the left, the engine suddenly lost power. The pilot then performed a forced landing, during which the airplane struck trees and subsequently impacted the ground.
Witness Observations
Prior to the accident, a witness observed the pilot conduct a high-speed taxi down the runway, exiting at the midfield point, and then taxi towards the run-up area. Approximately five minutes later, the witness heard the airplane's engine sputter as it passed mid-field. The airplane was already airborne and seemed to have trouble climbing over the river levy located at the departure end of the runway.
Examination Findings
Examination of the airplane revealed that the left and right wing fuel filler openings displayed "heavy" corrosion. Their respective filler cap gaskets were worn and flattened and did not form an effective seal. The engine was removed from the airframe and placed on a test stand. The engine was started and ran with no abnormalities noted.
A fuel sample device was found in the wreckage. Examination of the device revealed loose sediment and debris in the bottom of the cup, and it smelled of must, which was consistent with lack of recent use.
Weather Conditions
Review of recorded weather showed that approximately 0.35 inches of rain fell on the day prior to the accident, while the airplane was parked outside.