Accident Summary
On September 26, 2015, at about 0345 eastern daylight time, a Cessna 150F, registration N6922F, impacted terrain and a house after a total loss of engine power during climb following takeoff from Smith Field Airport (SMD) in Fort Wayne, Indiana. The airplane sustained substantial damage. The private pilot's injuries are unknown, and a passenger sustained minor injuries. The flight was operated under 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight without a flight plan. Night visual meteorological conditions prevailed at the time of the accident.
Pilot Statement
The pilot left the accident scene and was not immediately located by law enforcement, as documented in a Fort Wayne Police Department report. The NTSB Investigator-In-Charge and FAA Coordinator were unable to interview the pilot after the accident. The pilot submitted a written statement via NTSB Form 6120.1, describing preflight actions, fuel checks, two previous flights of about 15 minutes each, and a third takeoff. Approximately one minute after takeoff, the engine sputtered. The pilot leveled off, turned back toward the airport, and the engine briefly regained power. The fuel gauges indicated just shy of a quarter tank each. Despite attempts to restore power, the engine stopped. The airplane stalled through the treetops, and the left main landing gear struck an electric line, causing a left yaw and nose-first impact at about 30 mph. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunction or failure.
Investigation Findings
After recovery, the fuel tanks were drained. The right tank yielded approximately 1/3 gallon, and the left tank about 6 ounces. Neither tank was breached. The fuel appeared and smelled like automotive fuel mixed with a trace of 100 low lead. Laboratory testing revealed the fuel contained at least 5 percent ethanol and was not MOGAS (motor gasoline).
Maintenance Records
The NTSB requested original pilot logbooks, aircraft maintenance records, and registration certificate. Copies of the airframe and engine logbooks were provided by the pilot's attorney. These records indicated the aircraft had been out of annual inspection requirements from September 28, 2014, to May 29, 2015. Copies of the pilot's logbook showed entries for 2014 and 2015, with incomplete page totals and missing forward totals and total to date entries.
Probable Cause
The investigation did not state a probable cause.