What happened
The flight was initially destined for Charlottesville, Virginia. Adverse weather conditions at the intended destination necessitated a diversion to Shenandoah Valley Airport. Upon arrival at this alternate airport, the pilot executed two separate missed approaches due to continued unsuitable weather.
During the climb-out phase following the second missed approach, the left engine ceased operation. The pilot reported that the failure was caused by fuel exhaustion. Following this event, the left propeller was feathered to reduce drag. The pilot communicated the situation to Washington Center and requested navigation vectors toward Waynesboro Airport as the next destination.
While en route to Waynesboro, the right engine began to operate roughly. The aircraft was unable to maintain level flight under these conditions. Shortly thereafter, the right engine also failed completely. With both engines inoperative, the pilot executed a forced landing in an open field. The aircraft continued its momentum over an embankment and came to rest on Virginia Route 608.
The investigation
An initial inspection of the aircraft was conducted after the incident. The examination revealed that there was little or no fuel remaining in the tanks, confirming the pilot's account of fuel exhaustion.