What happened
A commercial certificated pilot was operating a tailwheel airplane equipped with tundra tires for a landing at an unimproved, off-airport site under Title 14, CFR Part 91. During the base leg of the approach, the engine lost power, leading to an emergency descent and subsequent collision with the terrain.
The aircraft owner reported observing the preflight inspection, during which the pilot sumpmed the fuel tanks and discovered a small quantity of water. Following the accident, the aircraft sustained damage to its fuselage, wings, lift-struts, and landing gear.
The investigation
An inspection of the aircraft following the accident revealed the presence of water in the gascolator, carburetor, and fuel lines. The owner noted that the aircraft had been fueled from drums using filters and that it had rained during the preceding days. After the aircraft was refueled with clean fuel, the engine started and operated without further issues.