| Crash location | 45.116389°N, 92.995833°W
Reported location is a long distance from the NTSB's reported nearest city. This often means that the location has a typo, or is incorrect. |
| Nearest city | White Bear Lake, MN
45.631349°N, 95.570598°W 129.9 miles away |
| Tail number | N87792 |
|---|---|
| Accident date | 20 Apr 2010 |
| Aircraft type | Piper J3C-65 |
| Additional details: | None |
The pilot reported that he conducted a normal preflight, run-up, and takeoff. The engine stopped during the takeoff climb about 150 – 200 feet above ground level (agl). The pilot restarted the engine 3 – 4 times, but the engine was producing less power each time. With the engine stopped, the pilot executed a forced landing to a field with trees in it. The airplane sustained substantial damage on impact with trees and terrain. The inspection of the airplane’s fuel system revealed that the fuel line between the fuel sump (strainer) and the carburetor was full of water. The inspection of the airplane revealed no other anomalies.
A total loss of engine power during takeoff due to fuel contamination as a result of the pilot's inadequate preflight inspection.