Incident Overview
A cross-country flight ended abruptly when the aircraft's engine lost power and ceased operation approximately four miles from the intended airport. The pilot, unable to reach the runway, executed a forced landing in an open area. During the landing roll, the aircraft struck a fence and nosed over, coming to rest in an inverted position.
Post-Accident Inspection
Subsequent examination of the aircraft focused on the fuel system. Investigators drained the entire fuel system and collected approximately eight ounces of fuel. No other mechanical failures or malfunctions were identified during the inspection. The aircraft was deemed to have no pre-existing defects that could have contributed to the power loss.
Pilot Actions
The pilot attempted to glide to the runway after the engine failure but was unable to maintain sufficient altitude. The forced landing was carried out in a field roughly three miles short of the runway threshold. The pilot's immediate actions following the power loss were consistent with standard emergency procedures for an engine failure.
Outcome
The aircraft sustained damage from the fence collision and the subsequent nose-over. The pilot's condition was not specified in the report. The investigation concluded that the engine failure was likely due to fuel exhaustion, as indicated by the minimal fuel recovered from the system.