Incident Overview
A pilot encountered a total loss of engine power while en route at 4,000 feet mean sea level during a cross-country flight. After switching fuel tanks, the pilot was unable to restart the engine and initiated a planned approach for a forced landing at an airport.
Sequence of Events
On final approach, the pilot lowered the landing gear prematurely. Realizing the aircraft would land short of the runway, the pilot raised the landing gear. The aircraft subsequently executed a gear-up landing on a residential street adjacent to the airport. Following touchdown, the aircraft slid into a tree.
Investigation Findings
The investigation revealed that no fuel was present in the engine fuel system. The fuel tanks were examined: the left main tank, which the pilot had been using, along with both tip tanks, were empty. The right main tank and both auxiliary tanks were full.