Accident Summary
An aircraft en route to Athens, Georgia, experienced an engine failure while at cruise altitude. The flight was last observed by hunters, who reported seeing the aircraft flying low overhead prior to the collision. Witnesses did not hear the engine running. The aircraft subsequently struck trees, resulting in the separation of the wing structure, and came to rest inverted in the wooded area.
Wreckage Examination
A thorough examination of the wreckage failed to disclose any mechanical anomalies that could have led to the engine failure. Investigators found no evidence of pre-impact mechanical issues with the airframe or engine.
Fuel Analysis
Reconstruction of the flight route indicated that the pilot did not have enough fuel onboard to complete the journey to Athens. The analysis suggested that if the pilot had monitored the actual flight time during the en route phase, the need to refuel before reaching Athens would have been apparent.