Accident Overview
Approximately 20 minutes after departure, while in cruise flight, the engine ceased operation due to fuel starvation. The pilot repositioned the fuel selector and attempted to restart the engine, but the attempt was unsuccessful. During the subsequent emergency descent, which occurred on a dark night, the aircraft collided with trees and then the ground before coming to rest.
Fuel System Examination
Post-accident examination revealed that the left fuel tank, which was drained, contained approximately 7 gallons of fuel. The right fuel tank, which was not damaged, was found to be empty. There was no evidence of fuel siphoning through the fuel caps. Both fuel caps were inspected and operated satisfactorily.
The right wing fuel vent was examined and discovered to be blocked by an unknown object. However, both fuel tanks had vented fuel caps installed, and both caps checked out functionally good.
Engine Test
The engine was removed from the accident aircraft and installed on another aircraft for an operational test. The engine started and operated normally, indicating no mechanical malfunction.
Pilot Report
The pilot reported that at the time of the power loss, the fuel selector was positioned to the left tank.