Event Description
Shortly after takeoff, at approximately 300 feet above ground level, the engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot activated the electric fuel pump and moved the fuel selector several times in an attempt to restore power. Despite these efforts, the engine did not regain power, and the pilot executed a forced landing into trees.
Investigation
Following the accident, the pilot told a police officer that he might have departed with the fuel selector positioned to an empty tank. The pilot later stated that both fuel gauges indicated "1/4" full, but he could not recall which tank was selected during takeoff. A passenger reported not smelling or observing any fuel when exiting the airplane. The passenger also noted that on a previous occasion, the pilot had exhausted one fuel tank, switched to the other, and the engine re-started.
An FAA inspector examined the wreckage and found that the fuel selector was positioned to the right tank. The right fuel tank contained some fuel, while the left fuel tank had ruptured. Following the accident, a successful engine test-run was performed, indicating the engine itself was functional.
Probable Cause
The pilot's inadequate fuel management, which resulted in fuel starvation and a total loss of engine power during the initial climb.