Overview
A private pilot and passenger were conducting a night VFR cross-country flight when the airplane experienced a total loss of engine power. The pilot reported the event occurred while cruising at 3,000 feet above ground level (AGL).
Sequence of Events
According to the pilot, the engine lost power entirely during cruise flight. He attempted and successfully restarted the engine, but it subsequently quit again. A forced landing was then executed. During the landing roll, the airplane collided with a fence and a tree, resulting in substantial damage. Neither the pilot nor the passenger sustained injuries.
Investigation Findings
Post-accident investigation revealed that the airplane had been operated for approximately 5.5 hours. The fuel tanks were found empty and had not ruptured during the crash sequence. The pilot stated that the accident was caused by fuel exhaustion.