Incident Overview
A pilot flying a single-engine aircraft experienced an engine failure while descending toward San Carlos Airport. The pilot reported that the engine sputtered and then died, describing the event as exhibiting "classic symptoms of fuel exhaustion."
Preflight and Fuel Management
Before departing from San Carlos earlier, the pilot conducted a preflight inspection that included a visual check of the fuel quantity in the tanks. However, during a stop in Fresno before the return flight, the pilot did not inspect the fuel tanks and did not refuel the aircraft. This omission led to a fuel state that proved insufficient for the remainder of the journey.
Emergency Landing
As the engine failed, the pilot maneuvered the aircraft toward a flat area near some buildings but lacked sufficient altitude to reach it. He then selected a city street for an attempted landing. During the landing attempt, the aircraft collided with power lines and trees.
Post-Accident Findings
A responding county sheriff's deputy, who is also a pilot and one of the designated San Mateo County aircraft accident and/or incident investigators, examined the aircraft. He stated that the fuel system was intact, but both fuel tanks were empty. After the aircraft was recovered from the site, a complete fuel system integrity check was performed, and approximately one gallon of fuel was drained from the system.