What happened
The pilot conducted a preflight inspection prior to departure and believed the aircraft had sufficient fuel for a one-hour flight. Approximately 15 minutes into the flight, the engine lost all power without warning while in the cruise phase.
While attempting a forced landing, the aircraft struck trees and the top of a commercial building. The aircraft eventually came to rest in a ditch located approximately 200 feet from the approach end of runway 07 at the Nevada County Air Park. The pilot was not injured.
The investigation
During the examination of the engine compartment, investigators found a broken fuel line within an area that had sustained impact damage. Evidence of fuel spillage was present; however, no leaks were observed originating from either of the wing fuel tanks.
A subsequent examination of the airframe revealed no evidence of mechanical malfunction or obstructions. Following the incident, the engine was started using a temporary fuel supply and operated without any noted discrepancies.