Narrative
A pilot was operating an airplane over a river at an altitude of 1,400 feet above mean sea level. The pilot initiated a left turn over the river, applied carburetor heat to the engine, and descended to approximately 500 feet above the water. After descending, the pilot secured the carburetor heat and opened the throttle, but the engine did not respond. The engine "sounded o.k." but remained at idle power regardless of throttle position.
The pilot checked that the fuel selector was on. While at an altitude between 300 and 400 feet above the river, the pilot turned the airplane toward a shoreline. The pilot attempted a forced landing to a field; however, prior to reaching the field, the airplane descended into a tree.
Post-Accident Examination
No examination of the airplane was performed at the accident scene. A cursory examination by the owner at a later date yielded no preaccident mechanical anomalies.
Meteorological Conditions
Ambient temperature and dew point values indicated a probability of serious carburetor icing at glide power.