Overview
The pilot of a single-engine airplane reported that after approximately three hours of flight, he considered stopping for fuel but decided to continue. The engine subsequently lost power due to fuel exhaustion while the aircraft was about 7 nautical miles west of an airport. The pilot initiated a turn to reach the airport but determined he would not make it. During the ensuing forced landing, the right wing collided with a tree. The airplane then descended and came to rest upright in a field.
Pilot Statement
According to the pilot, at the time of the engine power loss, the left fuel gauge indicated empty and the right fuel gauge showed approximately 1/8 full.
Examination
An FAA airworthiness inspector examined the airplane and found that both fuel tanks were intact and empty.
Conclusion
The engine lost power due to fuel exhaustion, leading to the forced landing and collision with a tree.