The airplane was substantially damaged at about 1015 Eastern time following loss of engine power and collision with terrain. The private pilot sustained minor injuries. Visual conditions prevailed.
While at 2500 feet msl, the engine began to “sputter.” The pilot turned to the north in search of a landing field. He heard a loud noise and the engine lost all power. He force-landed the airplane in a cotton field and the landing gear collapsed in the soft soil. Examination revealed confirmed substantial damage to the engine firewall and fuselage. The engine’s number one cylinder also exhibited damage.
