Accident Overview
On April 25, 2023, at approximately 2035 eastern daylight time, an experimental amateur-built Vans RV6, registration N327WC, was substantially damaged in an accident near Eaton, Ohio. The private pilot, who was the sole occupant, sustained serious injuries. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Pilot and Aircraft Information
The pilot reported purchasing the airplane the day before the accident. He completed two uneventful flights in the aircraft following the purchase. During the third flight, the engine lost all power, prompting a forced landing in a cornfield. The airplane nosed over during the landing and came to rest inverted.
Examination of Wreckage
A Federal Aviation Administration inspector examined the wreckage and noted substantial damage to the left wing and vertical stabilizer. The inspector detected a faint smell of automotive gasoline and observed that the airplane was equipped with a Honda Civic engine. The examination was limited due to the disposition of the wreckage. A subsequent examination by a recovery crew revealed that both fuel tanks were empty, and there was no evidence of a fuel leak in the field.
Fuel Analysis
When queried about the fuel quantity, the pilot stated he had flown earlier in the day uneventfully and "started with about 35 gallons." He indicated that at the time of the power loss, the fuel gauges showed approximately 8 to 10 gallons remaining. The pilot did not know how much fuel was onboard when the aircraft was delivered or if any fuel was added afterward. The previous owner reported that the airplane was delivered with about 3 gallons in the right-wing fuel tank and 10 gallons in the left-wing fuel tank.
Engine Examination
The engine was retained for further examination. The propeller was rotated by hand, and continuity was confirmed through the reduction gear to the rear accessory section. No evidence of any preimpact mechanical malfunctions was observed.