Incident Overview
A pilot reported experiencing a loss of engine power during the initial climb after takeoff. The pilot had performed a runup and switched the fuel tank selector to the fullest tank before departure. During takeoff, the pilot retracted the landing gear, climbed to approximately 300 feet above ground level, and then encountered the power loss. The pilot banked left to avoid housing and landed the airplane at an intersection with stopped traffic.
Post-Accident Examination
An airframe and powerplant mechanic assisting first responders examined the aircraft and found the fuel selector switch positioned at the four o'clock location, which is between the three o'clock (right-hand tank) and six o'clock (off) positions. No other pre-impact anomalies were identified during the on-scene examination of the airplane.