Departure and Inflight Events
The aircraft, identified as n7851P, departed with 90 gallons of fuel on board. Approximately 45 minutes after takeoff, the pilot noted that fuel consumption was high. All four occupants could smell fuel throughout the cabin. About two hours after departure, the engine quit and was subsequently restarted. The pilot then proceeded to land at an alternate airport.
Forced Landing and Crash
During the final approach, the pilot stated that the approach was high and from the east. A 20-knot tailwind existed at the time of landing. The airplane overshot the runway, contacted trees, and crashed.
Post-Accident Inspection
An on-scene investigation revealed no fuel in the left main fuel tank, 3 gallons in the auxiliary fuel tanks, and some fuel in the right main fuel tank, but the quantity could not be determined. The right fuel tank lines were found separated from the fuel tank, while the left fuel tank lines were intact. The engine-driven fuel pump, quick drain, fuel selector valve, fuel tank caps, and left fuel tank exhibited no anomalies.