What happened
During a night descent under Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC), the pilot experienced engine surging followed by a double power loss. Upon breaking out of the clouds at 1,000 feet Above Ground Level (AGL), the pilot identified a field and executed a forced landing. The aircraft sustained minor damage during the incident.
The investigation
Following the accident, the FAA conducted a post-incident examination of the aircraft. Investigators found the fuel tanks to be intact but empty. During interviews, the pilot stated that he had observed a fuel truck pull up to his aircraft and depart shortly thereafter; he noted that another company pilot had informed him he could collect his fuel slip on a return trip.
Additionally, the pilot reported that during the preceding flight, the left fuel gauge indicated a higher level than the right fuel gauge. Upon inspection by the FAA after the incident, the left fuel gauge indicated a full tank, while the right fuel gauge indicated it was empty.