Departure and Fuel Planning
The pilot departed with fuel sufficient for six hours of flying. No other details about the departure or preflight preparation are available.
In-Flight Fuel Discussion
During cruise flight, the passenger discussed a possible low fuel condition with the pilot. The fuel quantity gauge indicated only one quarter full. The pilot rejected the possibility of low fuel.
Fuel Exhaustion and Forced Landing
Fuel exhaustion occurred 2 hours and 50 minutes into the flight. The pilot executed a forced landing to an open field. During the landing, the airplane struck a tree and impacted the ground.
Post-Accident Investigation
An FAA inspector conducted a post-accident investigation. The inspection revealed wet fuel stains along the right wing and fuselage of the airplane. The pilot and passenger recalled that fuel siphoning from the right wing cap had occurred on previous flights.