Flight and Engine Failure
According to the pilot, the takeoff from a 1,200-foot grass strip was normal. At about 250 feet above ground level, the engine began losing power without any associated roughness or vibration. The pilot did not observe the engine gauges, focusing instead on identifying a suitable landing area. The airplane's flight path was toward slightly rising terrain, prompting the pilot to turn toward a more favorable landing site.
Forced Landing and Accident
During the turn, the airplane began losing altitude. The pilot executed a forced landing to an uncut hay field. Despite efforts to keep the wings level, the left wing struck the hay first, causing the airplane to pivot around the left wing tip. The airplane rotated 180 degrees before coming to rest upright.
Post-Accident Fire and Investigation
A fire started near the lower portion of the engine. The passenger assisted the pilot in evacuating before the airplane became engulfed in flames. Due to the remote location, fire response took approximately 30 minutes. The pilot reported that the engine had operated normally prior to the accident flight with no indications of impending failure. Thermal damage prevented a thorough investigation, and the reason for the partial loss of engine power could not be determined.