Incident Overview
Approximately 40 minutes after departure, the pilot reported engine problems and requested radar vectors to the nearest airport. Air traffic control provided a vector of 215 degrees to Avon Park Airport, located about 11 miles southwest. The pilot subsequently stated that the airport was in sight.
Collision with Trees
During the approach, the aircraft struck treetops at an altitude of about 45 feet AGL and approximately 700 feet northeast of the approach end of Runway 4.
Fuel Examination
Examination of the aircraft's fuel system revealed no fuel present. According to the pilot, he had calculated that at least 23 gallons of fuel should have remained at the time the flight experienced fuel exhaustion.