Incident
During a descent in instrument meteorological conditions (IMC) at night, the pilot encountered engine surging followed by a double power loss. After breaking out of the clouds at 1000 feet above ground level (AGL), the pilot identified a field and executed a forced landing. The airplane sustained minor damage in the landing.
Post-Incident Examination
Following the incident, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) conducted an examination of the airplane. The fuel tanks were found intact but empty. Additionally, the FAA checked the fuel gauges: the left fuel gauge indicated full, while the right fuel gauge indicated empty.
Pilot Statements
During an interview, the pilot reported observing a fuel truck approach the airplane and then depart shortly thereafter. Another company pilot informed the pilot that he could collect his fuel slip on the return trip. On the flight preceding the incident, the pilot noted that the left fuel gauge showed a higher reading than the right fuel gauge.