Sequence of Events
The airplane was in flight at an altitude of approximately 700 feet above ground level when the engine experienced a loss of power. The pilot initiated a turn toward a shopping mall parking lot, intending to land there. During the descent, the airplane struck a power line. The subsequent impact with the ground occurred in a nose-low attitude, and the nose landing gear collapsed.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the airplane revealed that the fuel tanks were empty. The fuel quantity gauges indicated empty, and there was no evidence of fuel siphoning or leakage on the airplane.
Pilot-Related Information
The pilot reported that he did not check the fuel quantity before the flight, but instead estimated the amount. The pilot's medical certificate had expired, and his flight review was past due. Toxicology testing conducted by a police toxicologist indicated that the pilot had a blood alcohol level of 0.060%.