Departure and Initial Flight
The pilot departed Gardiner at approximately 1530, estimating a flight time of about 35 minutes. The flight proceeded without reported incident until the aircraft neared Farmingdale.
Fuel Mismanagement During Approach
While intercepting the final approach at Farmingdale, the left fuel tank ran out of gas. The pilot switched the fuel selector to the right tank and continued the approach. However, at about 1722, the engine lost power.
Forced Landing and Impact
With the engine inoperative, the pilot executed a forced landing. During the landing, the airplane impacted a tree.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the wreckage revealed no fuel in the fuel tanks. No anomalies were found in the fuel system. The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions with the airplane.
Pilot's Assessment
The pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented with better flight planning, implying that the fuel exhaustion was due to inadequate preflight or in-flight fuel management.