What happened
On the morning of the accident, the pilot departed at approximately 0820 to perform mosquito larvicide applications over local wetlands. After completing the application runs, the pilot initiated a climb toward the airport when the aircraft experienced a loss of engine power.
The pilot identified a suitable location for a forced landing in a pasture area characterized by heavy marsh grass. However, the terrain proved too soft and rough for a successful downwind landing. During the aircraft's rollout, the right main landing gear collapsed, causing the airplane to ground loop to the right.
The investigation
A post-accident evaluation of the aircraft revealed that the right main landing gear had failed. Additionally, investigators found that a rib was bent in the right wing and both wing tips sustained damage.
Findings
The pilot reported that the primary cause of the engine failure was fuel exhaustion.