Accident Overview
The pilot of a single-engine aircraft reported that the engine had failed. Air traffic control advised the pilot that the nearest airport, Elking, was 12 miles away. Several minutes later, the pilot stated that he did not think he could make it to the airport and intended to search for a field to land.
Sequence of Events
Witnesses observed the landing gear extended approximately one mile from the crash site. The aircraft subsequently crashed into trees about 300 feet from a plowed field. Other fields were located in the vicinity of the crash site.
Post-Crash Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the pilot's shoulder harness was stowed. The left fuel tank was ruptured and empty. Personnel at the scene reported a strong odor of fuel. The right fuel tank contained approximately one inch of fuel. Fuel stains were found on the left side of the upper engine case supply line fitting at the fuel manifold valve. Fuel stains were also noted forward of the rubber coupling that joins the turbocharger compressed air line to the upstream (aft) end of the throttle body.