Accident Summary
An aircraft contacted power lines during a nighttime forced landing following fuel exhaustion. The accident occurred while the pilot was returning from Reno, Nevada to Concord, California.
Pilot Information
The pilot had recently completed a checkout in the accident aircraft and was accustomed to flying Mooneys. According to the pilot, he did not refuel the aircraft before departing Reno because he was concerned that the additional fuel weight would degrade aircraft performance, given the need to cross mountainous terrain.
Circumstances
The flight originated in Concord, California, with a destination of Reno, Nevada. After reaching Reno, the pilot began the return trip to Concord without refueling. During the return, the engine stopped due to fuel exhaustion, necessitating a forced landing at night. During the landing, the aircraft struck power lines.
No further details regarding injuries, damage, or aircraft specifics were provided in the official report.