Primary finding
Probable cause
Carburetor ice as a result of the pilot-in-command's improper use of carburetor heat.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The airplane sustained a loss of engine power while in cruise flight. The pilot selected a roadway for a forced landing. On touchdown directional control was lost and the airplane impacted a mail box. Conditions favorable for carburetor ice accumulation prevailed at the time of the accident. No mechanical anomalies were found during a post accident examination. The nearest weather reporting station to the accident was about 20 miles to the west. One hour prior to the accident this station was reporting a temperature of 25 degrees(f), and dewpoint of 14 degrees (f).
Source record
Factual narrative
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