Flight and Initial Conditions
A cross-country flight commenced during daylight hours and concluded under dark night conditions. The pilot had received their private pilot certificate ten days prior to the accident.
Fuel Management
The pilot did not refuel after the first leg of the flight. At the next two landing sites, the pilot was unable to refuel. En route to the fourth destination, the loss of engine power occurred after approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes of flight.
Events Leading to the Accident
The pilot informed an air traffic control facility that they were 10 miles from the intended landing site. Shortly thereafter, the pilot reported that the engine had shut down and that the airplane was out of fuel.
Landing and Impact
During the landing to unsuitable terrain, the airplane struck electrical wires and a telephone post. A witness saw the airplane's landing light but did not hear the engine running.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the airplane at the accident site revealed one gallon of fuel in the airplane and no fuel spillage on the ground. The pilot was not using the shoulder harness and sustained injuries to the facial areas.