Approach Request and Fuel Concerns
Upon contacting air traffic control (ATC), the pilot requested an instrument landing system (ILS) approach and reported being low on fuel. The controller cleared the pilot for the ILS approach. Just inside the outer marker, the controller advised the pilot that he was dangerously low and instructed him to climb immediately.
Lost Radar Contact and Relay
The pilot was observed making a northerly turn. The controller asked the pilot his intentions; the pilot replied that he wanted an ILS to the airport. The controller gave the pilot vectors back to the ILS when the pilot stated that he was descending through a hole in visual meteorological conditions (VMC). Radar contact was lost, and the controller used another aircraft to relay messages to the pilot.
Emergency Declaration and Landing
The pilot again stated that he was low on fuel. The controller advised the pilot to squawk 7700 and, if he could not make it to another airport, to find a flat spot and land. The pilot located a dry wash and landed.
Post-Landing Incident
While taxiing to higher ground, the right wing struck a fence.