Event Description
While on an approach to land with the landing gear and flaps extended at approximately 500 feet above ground level, the aircraft's left engine ceased operation. The pilot reported that he immediately verified the positions of the fuel selector handles, confirming that both were placed in the indent (the position indicating fuel flow from both tanks). He then moved the right engine's fuel selector to the left main tank position. Shortly thereafter, the right engine also stopped running.
Pilot Actions
With both engines inoperative, the pilot chose to land on a nearby beach. He retracted the landing gear and adjusted the aircraft's heading to parallel the shoreline. Just before touchdown, the pilot observed a person sitting directly in his intended landing path. To avoid the individual, he altered his approach to touch down on sloping terrain closer to the water.
Landing and Impact
During the landing, the right wing contacted the sand, causing the aircraft to crash land. The right wing dug into the sand as the aircraft came to rest.
Post-Accident Inspection
An investigation of the wreckage revealed the fuel levels in the aircraft's tanks. The right main fuel tank was approximately two-thirds full. The right auxiliary tank contained about five gallons of fuel. The left main and left auxiliary fuel tanks were both empty.