Incident Overview
A certified flight instructor (CFI) and a student pilot experienced a loss of engine power after conducting several local practice approaches. The incident occurred when, following the last approach while circling to land, the engine lost power. The CFI attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful. A forced landing was made on top of a ridge, during which the left wing contacted the terrain.
Preflight Actions
During the preflight inspection, neither the CFI nor the student pilot visually checked the fuel quantity in the fuel tanks. The student reported that the fuel caps were frozen, and as he was attempting to free them, the CFI stated, "It was alright," and instructed the student to get in the airplane. The CFI later stated that he had checked the left tank and thought the student had checked the right tank. The student indicated he was under the impression that the CFI had checked the fuel quantity prior to his arrival, so he entered the airplane.
Post-Accident Findings
A post-accident inspection revealed that the right fuel tank was empty, and the left tank contained 1 gallon of fuel.
Probable Cause
The source does not state a probable cause.