Incident Overview
The pilot experienced engine power failure attributed to fuel exhaustion. The circumstances surrounding the fuel exhaustion remain unclear, as approximately 30 gallons of fuel should have been on board at the time of the crash.
Sequence of Events
After the power failure, air traffic control vectored the pilot toward the nearest airport. However, the pilot was unable to reach the intended runway. The aircraft crashed into a rough, rocky, tree-covered hillside located about half a mile short of the approach end of the runway.
Engine Examination
An operational check of the engine conducted at a later date revealed no evidence of abnormalities. The engine performance was normal under testing conditions.
Investigation Findings
The investigation determined that the cause of the engine power failure was fuel exhaustion. The reason for the fuel exhaustion, given the expected fuel quantity, could not be established.