What happened
While conducting a cross-country flight over mountainous terrain, the pilot encountered strong headwinds and low visibility, which caused him to deviate south of his intended route. During the flight, the pilot made a radio request for fuel assistance. He subsequently landed at Skwentna, where he met another pilot. From that aircraft, the pilot received approximately 3 to 4 gallons of fuel.
After departing Skwentna for his destination, the engine failed approximately 2 miles short of the arrival strip. The pilot attempted a forced landing, during which the aircraft collided with trees.
The investigation
An inspection of the aircraft following the accident revealed that the fuel tanks were empty. Investigators also observed fuel staining on the upper surface of the left wing, extending from the fuel cap to the trailing edge of the wing.