What happened
The N7851P, a single-engine aircraft, departed with 90 gallons of fuel on board. Roughly 45 minutes into the flight, the pilot observed high fuel consumption levels, and all four occupants noted the smell of fuel inside the cabin.
Approximately two hours after takeoff, the engine stopped running but was subsequently restarted. The pilot then diverted to an alternate airport to land. During the final approach, the pilot reported a high and east trajectory. At the time of landing, a 20-knot tailwind was present. Upon touchdown, the aircraft overshot the runway, struck trees, and crashed.
The investigation
On-scene investigators examined the fuel system and found that the left main fuel tank was empty, while the auxiliary tanks contained only 3 gallons of fuel. The amount of fuel remaining in the right main tank could not be determined.
Mechanical examination revealed that the right fuel tank lines had separated from the tank. In contrast, the left fuel tank lines remained intact. No anomalies were found regarding the engine-driven fuel pump, quick drain, fuel selector valve, or the fuel tank caps.