What happened
Shortly before the accident, the pilot contacted the Fullerton ATCT to request assistance in locating the airport. Communications between the pilot and air traffic controllers indicated that the pilot appeared disoriented. During the flight, approximately 8 miles east of the airport, the pilot reported a loss of engine power. While attempting a forced landing, the airplane collided with power lines.
The investigation
The aircraft recovery firm responsible for retrieving the aircraft found the fuel system to be intact. Upon inspection, investigators found that 2 gallons of fuel had been drained from the right tank and approximately 4 ounces from the left tank. According to the pilot, the rate of fuel consumption was higher than anticipated because the mixture had not been sufficiently leaned and a higher RPM setting was used than originally planned in order to maintain the desired airspeed.