Accident Summary
According to the operator, the aircraft's engine had recently undergone cylinder replacement. Pilots were instructed to operate the engine at 75% power with a richer-than-normal mixture during a break-in period. On the accident flight, the pilot took off with a full fuel load.
Events Leading to the Accident
As the pilot approached the vicinity of Athens, Georgia, he informed Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) that he would like to divert due to low fuel. However, the closest airport was below minimums. The next closest airport was his intended destination. While being vectored for an Instrument Landing System (ILS) approach, the engine lost power due to fuel exhaustion.
Forced Landing and Impact
During the forced landing, the aircraft hit trees and subsequently crashed to the ground. There was minimal compromise of the cabin area during the accident.
Post-Impact Evidence
Both occupants died soon after the aircraft crashed. There was evidence that both occupants struck the instrument panel during impact. The pilot had bruises consistent with the use of a shoulder harness, but the passenger had no such bruises.