Accident Details
A Beech 23 aircraft experienced a loss of engine power during a go-around maneuver. The subsequent off-airport landing resulted in the aircraft colliding with a house. The private pilot, who was on his first flight in this aircraft type, succumbed to injuries the following day. The flight instructor on board sustained serious injuries.
Fuel System Findings
Examination of the accident site found no evidence of a large fuel spill; only residual fuel was present. The left fuel gauge transmitter indicated a higher quantity of fuel than was actually in the tank on low readings. The aircraft had flown 6.2 hours according to the Hobbs meter since its last refueling. The fuel tanks are equipped with tabs to assist in determining the amount of fuel in the tanks.
Witness Account
A witness reported that the private pilot conducted the pre-flight inspection alone. Subsequently, the flight instructor arrived at the aircraft, and the flight departed a few minutes later. This was the private pilot's first flight in the Beech 23 type.