Accident Overview
The airplane departed on a cross-country flight with an undetermined amount of fuel. After flying for approximately 4 hours and 15 minutes, it experienced a loss of engine power. The pilot conducted a forced landing, during which the airplane crashed in a wooded area roughly 2 miles from the destination airport.
Passenger Statement
A State Police Officer reported that the passenger stated they "...ran out of fuel and crashed."
Wreckage Examination
Examination of the aircraft wreckage revealed that both wing tanks contained no fuel. The fuel line leading to the flow divider contained only about a spoonful of fuel.
Engine Testing
After the accident, the engine was run in a test cell and operated at rated power. During the test, the engine-driven fuel pump exhibited high pressure and flow rates at full power.