Accident Sequence
The pilot made two missed approaches to the Corpus Christi, Texas, airport before diverting to McAllen, Texas, which was his alternate destination. Shortly after joining the localizer for the approach, the engine lost power. The pilot then executed an intentional wheels-up forced landing in an open field located 8 miles northwest of the airport. During the landing, the pilot inadvertently stalled the airplane approximately 25 feet above the ground.
Pilot's Account
According to the pilot, both fuel gauges indicated that each tank contained one-quarter fuel. The pilot reported having flown 4.0 hours, noting that the airplane had an endurance of 5.5 hours.
Post-Accident Inspection
Salvage personnel and an FAA inspector examined the aircraft. They reported finding no fuel in the tanks. Additionally, when the wings were demated from the fuselage, no fuel came out of the fuel lines.