Accident Sequence
The purpose of the flight was to reposition the airplane from Grand Prairie Airport to Arlington Airport, approximately 7 miles to the southwest. During the preflight inspection, the pilot could not locate a ladder to visually check the quantity of fuel and consequently relied on the fuel gauges, which indicated above 1/4 full. The flight departed under visual flight rules (VFR). However, upon arrival at Arlington Airport, the pilot was unable to land due to localized instrument conditions in the vicinity of the airport. He elected to return to Grand Prairie and wait for the weather to improve.
During a turn from base to final approach for runway 17 at Grand Prairie, the engine lost power without warning. The pilot reported that after losing power, he 'did a brief checklist, but because of [the low] altitude, he had to choose a landing spot quickly.' The airplane touched down in a parking lot, overran the end of the parking lot, and impacted trees and bushes.
Post-Accident Examination
During examination of the airplane at the accident site, 15 gallons of fuel were drained from the compromised left tank. The right fuel cell, which was not compromised, was found to be empty. Post-accident engine testing confirmed that the engine performed within operational limits.