Flight and Diversion
According to the pilot's report, approximately 10 minutes from his intended destination, he became concerned because the fuel gauges indicated 'near zero.' He elected to divert to another airport, which he subsequently discovered was closed. During the diversion, the pilot maintained his altitude in anticipation of a possible power loss. He stated, 'I also became glued to the gas gauges and the engine RPM.'
Approach and Landing
On final approach, the pilot realized he was about 2,000 feet too high. He reduced the throttle and placed the aircraft in a slip. The pilot reported that the rate of descent and airspeed were high, and he did not lower any flaps. The aircraft touched down midfield on the 6,192-foot-long runway at an indicated airspeed of 126 mph.
Runway Excursion
The aircraft was unable to stop on the remaining runway and ran off the departure end, colliding with a dirt bank.
Pilot Statement on Fatigue
The pilot further indicated that he had been unable to get a room in Las Vegas the night prior to the flight and did not get any sleep. He stated in his report that fatigue due to the lack of sleep affected his judgment and performance.