Narrative
During a teardrop turn toward the airport, the pilot reported that the engine lost power. Shortly thereafter, it resumed developing power. This sequence of power loss and restoration occurred two more times. On the fourth occurrence, the engine lost power and did not regain it. The pilot switched the fuel selector from both tanks to one tank and turned on the backup ignition, but the engine would not restart.
Realizing insufficient airspeed and altitude to glide to the runway, the pilot elected to perform a forced landing on a narrow gravel road. As the airplane approached the road, the left wing struck the top of a tree, causing the airplane to spin. The pilot described the subsequent impact with the ground as hard.
Damage
The left wing leading edge sustained compression damage, and the main landing gear was spread apart.
Investigation
Post-accident examination revealed water in the fuel. The carburetor was opened, and a substantial amount of water was drained. Water was also found in the pilot's fuel storage tank.
Pilot Statement
The pilot surmised that the water likely entered the fuel due to recent heavy rain showers. He admitted that he failed to check the fuel during the preflight inspection and overlooked checking the fuel storage tank's fuel filter/water separator.