Accident Overview
The aircraft was on final approach when it lost engine power and initiated a forced landing. The pilot informed ATC that he would be landing short of the runway and, when asked about the nature of the emergency, replied, "I think I am running out of fuel." During the approach, the aircraft was observed in a steep left turn, during which it struck power lines and became inverted before impacting the ground. The pilot exited the aircraft with minor injuries.
Pilot Actions
The pilot attempted to regain engine power by switching fuel tanks, but the engine did not restart. He reported that he had tried this maneuver during the emergency. The pilot's actions were consistent with a response to fuel exhaustion.
Fuel Exhaustion Determination
An evaluation of the aircraft's fuel supply and the duration of the flight indicated that the aircraft should have exhausted its supply of usable fuel prior to the accident. The power loss leading to the forced landing was attributed to fuel exhaustion.