What happened
During an on-demand charter flight operated for fishing and hunting purposes, the aircraft experienced a complete loss of engine power. The pilot managed to perform an emergency landing in a small lake. Following the touchdown, the aircraft was subjected to a ground run where an oil-fed fire ignited, ultimately destroying the airframe.
Findings
Investigations into the accident revealed several critical issues regarding the operation and maintenance of the aircraft. Authorities identified a lack of proper flight following documentation, as well as missing fuel and maintenance records for the specific aircraft and its ongoing operations.
Witnesses among the passengers noted that the fuel gauges appeared to be low prior to the departure. Upon physical examination of the fuel pump, investigators determined that fuel starvation was the primary mechanism behind the engine failure.