Sequence of Events
Before departing from Hampton, Georgia, the pilot requested that both main and auxiliary fuel tanks be filled to capacity. However, the refueler stated only the main tanks were topped off. During the flight, the pilot became aware of a low fuel condition. A passenger reported that the pilot considered landing at Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina, for fuel but, due to a radio problem, continued toward the intended destination of Newport News, Virginia. Later, the pilot decided to divert to Suffolk, Virginia, but the engine lost power approximately five miles from Suffolk Municipal Airport. The pilot then maneuvered for a landing in a field at night, and the airplane struck trees.
Post-Accident Findings
No evidence of fuel was found at the accident scene. A toxicology test of the pilot's blood detected chlorpheniramine, an over-the-counter antihistamine, at a concentration of 0.048 mcg/mL. Additionally, chlorpheniramine and phenylpropanolamine (an over-the-counter decongestant) were found in the pilot's urine. Chlorpheniramine is a central nervous system depressant that can cause drowsiness and is not approved for use while flying.