Flight History
The pilot did not perform a visual check of the fuel supply prior to departure. The flight consisted of a 45-minute solo segment, after which the aircraft landed at a private airstrip. At that location, a passenger boarded the aircraft.
Fuel Indication and Engine Failure
For the subsequent takeoff, the right fuel tank was selected. The fuel gauge indicated in the lower red quadrant, at one-quarter red, with no takeoff range indicated. As the aircraft climbed to approximately 25 feet above ground level (AGL), the engine failed.
Landing and Post-Crash Sequence
The aircraft touched down without any immediate incident. Subsequently, it struck a fence post and nosed over, coming to rest inverted.
Remarks
The pilot reported that he had not visually confirmed the fuel supply before the initial flight.