Incident Overview
A pilot experienced an engine power loss shortly after takeoff, prompting an emergency landing in a nearby field. During the landing, both wings collided with fence posts. The pilot subsequently reported to a Federal Aviation Administration inspector that the left fuel tank was approximately one-quarter full, while the right fuel tank was empty.
Fuel Selector Details
According to the pilot's account, the left fuel tank was selected during engine start and taxi. During the pre-takeoff run-up checks, the pilot switched the fuel selector valve as part of his normal procedures. However, he did not return the selector valve to the left tank prior to departure. The aircraft departed with the selector likely in a position that led to fuel starvation from the empty right tank.
Conclusion
The incident was attributed to fuel mismanagement, specifically the failure to select the tank containing sufficient fuel before takeoff. No other factors were reported.