Flight and Navigation
A VFR pilot departed Tulsa, Oklahoma, on a flight to Bristol, Tennessee, with a full load of fuel. No en route stops were made. In the area of Bristol, the pilot contacted Tri-City Approach Control and requested radar vectors to the Tri-City Airport. However, the aircraft's altitude was low, and radar contact with approach control was not established. The pilot believed he was southwest of the airport, but Atlanta ARTCC noted the aircraft was 40 nautical miles northwest of Tri-City. The pilot was advised of his position but continued on an easterly heading. Passengers noted turbulence, snow showers, and reduced visibility.
Landing
The pilot subsequently elected to land on a street in Dungannon, Virginia. Several witnesses noted an interruption of engine power before the aircraft was landed. Reportedly, the aircraft touched down hard, then bounced and went to the left of the street, hitting the porch of a house. The propeller blades had evidence of rotational damage despite the reported interruption of engine power.
Aircraft Examination
The fuel selector was found positioned to the right outboard tank; the two right tanks had about 1 quart of fuel remaining. The center of gravity of the aircraft was calculated to be behind the aft limit.