What happened
The pilot was conducting touch-and-go landings when the aircraft experienced a complete loss of power during a go-around maneuver. The decision to initiate the go-around was prompted by air traffic control instructions, as another aircraft remained on runway 03. Following the loss of power, the pilot attempted to reverse course toward runway 21. However, the N2373G was unable to maintain altitude and crashed into trees short of the runway threshold.
The investigation
A physical examination of the wreckage was conducted to determine the mechanical status of the aircraft at the time of impact. Investigators searched the fuel system for any remaining fuel reserves. The inspection revealed that no fuel was recovered from the fuel system, indicating the tanks were empty.
Findings
The investigation determined that the primary factor leading to the accident was the depletion of the fuel supply during the flight operations. The lack of available fuel prevented the engine from producing power, which directly resulted in the inability to complete the go-around and subsequently led to the collision with terrain.