Overview
The accident occurred during cruise flight when the engine began losing power. Ambient weather conditions were temperature 10°C and dew point 7°C, making the aircraft's carburetor susceptible to icing.
Sequence of Events
When the engine power loss started, the pilot switched fuel tanks but did not apply carburetor heat. Eventually, all engine power was lost. The pilot attempted a forced landing in a nearby field.
During the landing roll, the aircraft encountered soft, muddy terrain. This caused the aircraft to rock from side to side with sufficient amplitude that the wingtips came into contact with the terrain.
Post-Accident Inspection
A post-accident inspection of the engine found no anomalies that would have kept the engine from running under non-icing conditions.