Preflight and Takeoff
Before departure, the airplane's fuel tanks were topped off with fuel. The pilot reported that he "thought he adjusted his mixture control." During the takeoff roll, the pilot noticed no problems with engine performance.
In-Flight Engine Issue
During the gear retraction sequence after takeoff, the engine began to "act up." The pilot clarified that this was not characterized by sputtering or unusual noises, but rather a noticeable lack of expected power. The pilot attempted to remedy the situation by adjusting the mixture control to various lean and rich positions, but no change in engine power was observed.
Forced Landing Attempt
The pilot initiated a forced landing toward a nearby interstate highway. However, due to vehicle traffic on the highway, the pilot altered the plan and executed a forced landing to a field. The airplane touched down in the field with the landing gear still retracted, approximately 1 1/2 miles south of the departure airport.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the airplane revealed damage to the right side of the fuselage, which was crushed upward and aft. The right wing was bent. The propeller assembly and crankshaft propeller flange had separated from the crankshaft.
The engine had accumulated 250 hours since major overhaul. When the crankshaft was manually rotated, mechanical continuity throughout the engine was confirmed. Continuity was also established for the airframe and engine fuel systems. The magnetos and wire harnesses were functionally tested and no anomalies were noted. Continuity from the cockpit to the throttle assembly, propeller governor, and mixture control was verified. No anomalies were found that would have precluded normal engine operation prior to impact.