What happened
While approaching the destination airport, the pilot observed that the right fuel tank had run out of fuel. In response, the pilot switched the fuel source to the left tank, which indicated approximately 1/4 tank of remaining fuel on the quantity gauge.
Approximately 2-1/2 miles from the destination airport, the engine began to sputter and subsequently lost all power. The pilot attempted to restart the engine, but these efforts were unsuccessful. Due to the presence of traffic and the layout of the streets, the pilot was unable to maintain a normal glide speed.
The pilot performed a forced landing in a residential area located about 1/2 mile from the approach end of the runway. Following the touchdown, the aircraft impacted a roadway and skidded into a tree. The pilot was not injured.
The investigation
A post-accident examination of the aircraft's fuel system showed no evidence of usable fuel remaining in the system. Investigators noted that there were no fuel odors or fuel stains present at the accident site.
A visual inspection of the fuel system found no indications of a mechanical failure occurring prior to the impact. Furthermore, a review of the aircraft maintenance logs showed no previous discrepancies related to the fuel system.