What happened
A private pilot with 641 hours of flight time and one passenger were conducting a 155-nautical mile night cross-country flight. Shortly after the Cessna (type not specified in source) departed, the tower controller received a weak transmission containing the words "engine" and "power." After the controller requested clarification, the pilot transmitted, "I'm going down," followed by no further communication.
While flying approximately 400 feet above ground level, the aircraft engine stopped producing power. During a left turn, the left wingtip struck the ground, causing the aircraft to cartwheel. The resulting debris field measured approximately 125 feet long and 50 feet wide. The wreckage distribution and witness accounts of the flight path were consistent with an attempt by the pilot to return to the airport. A post-impact fire occurred, consuming the fuselage and causing extensive thermal damage to the wings and engine. There were no fatalities.
The investigation
An examination of the wreckage showed that the wing spoilers and landing gear were in the retracted position. Investigators could not determine the position of the flaps. No mechanical deficiencies were found in the airframe that would have prevented normal operations, and an examination of the engine revealed no anomalies prior to impact. The specific reason for the loss of engine power could not be determined.