Flight and Emergency
A pilot was conducting a night cross-country flight at an altitude of 2,000 feet above ground level. After switching fuel tanks, the pilot experienced a sudden drop in engine RPM. An emergency was declared, and Palm Beach Tower provided vectors to the nearest airport.
Emergency Procedures
During the emergency, the pilot checked the magnetos, activated the fuel pump, set the mixture to full rich, and switched the fuel tanks. A pilot-rated passenger in a rear seat shouted emergency procedures to the pilot. The pilot switched the fuel tanks again before initiating a forced landing.
Forced Landing
The forced landing was conducted into a residential area. The aircraft came to rest there, and emergency services responded.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the wreckage by the Federal Aviation Administration and the Palm Beach Sheriff's Department found the fuel selector handle in the 12 o'clock position, between the left and right main tank positions. This position would prevent fuel flow to the engine from either tank.