Narrative
The pilot initially contacted Coast TRACON and requested VFR traffic advisories to Torrence. At approximately 0747 Pacific Standard Time, the pilot declared an emergency, stating that the engine had quit, and requested vectors to John Wayne/Orange County Airport. In response, the controller provided a heading to the airport, along with the current wind and altimeter setting. At 0748, the controller advised the pilot that the airport was at his 11 o'clock position at 7 miles and that either runway was available for landing. About three minutes later, the pilot reported that he did not think he would reach the airport. Subsequently, the aircraft collided with trees, a house, and a fence in a residential area. The initial impact was with trees at approximately 35 feet above ground level while the aircraft was in a nose-high attitude.
Investigation Findings
An examination of the aircraft revealed that the fuel selector was positioned to the right main tank. The right main tank contained less than one gallon of fuel remaining. Adequate fuel was still present in the left fuel tanks. No preimpact part failure or malfunction was found. The engine operated satisfactorily during a post-accident check.