Accident
A Piper PA-28-181 aircraft departed on a cross-country flight with full fuel tanks, containing 48 gallons, according to the pilot. En route, the pilot experienced a loss of engine power at night after flying for 3.9 hours. The pilot subsequently performed a forced landing in a residential area. During the landing roll, the aircraft struck a house.
The pilot sustained minor injuries. The passenger suffered serious injuries. An occupant inside the house also received minor injuries. The aircraft incurred substantial damage.
Investigation
Investigation into the accident revealed that the aircraft's fuel tanks were empty. There was no evidence of fuel leakage from the aircraft.