Flight Details
The owner of the airplane had purchased it from the pilot the day before the accident flight. The purpose of the flight was for the new owner to become familiar with the aircraft. Prior to departure, the owner and the pilot performed parts of the preflight inspection, but the owner did not examine the fuel tanks to determine the quantity of fuel onboard. He later reported that he believed both fuel tank gauges indicated about one-quarter full.
Accident Sequence
During the initial climb after takeoff, the engine surged several times and then lost all power. The owner relinquished control of the airplane to the pilot in the right seat. The right-seated pilot executed a forced landing on a nearby road, landing in a southerly direction. During the landing rollout, the airplane encountered a strong westerly crosswind, causing it to veer off the road and collide with a dirt embankment.
Post-Accident Observations
The owner subsequently reported that he suspected the airplane ran out of gas. No further details were provided regarding the damage or injuries.