Flight Preparation
The day before the flight, the pilot checked the airplane and noted that the right fuel tank was full and the left tank was 'down 2 to 3 gallons.' The following morning, a preflight inspection was performed, and no fuel was added. The pilot then departed from Mariposa, California.
Events of the Flight
After flying for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, the pilot landed at Bakersfield and ate lunch. Subsequently, he took off for the return flight to Mariposa. During the return, the pilot cruised at 6,500 feet mean sea level and overflew Fresno, a community with several airports. The pilot observed the fuel gauges, switched tanks, and continued toward Mariposa. About 35 miles past Fresno, all engine power was lost. A ground-based witness heard the pilot transmit a distress call indicating that he was out of fuel. The pilot attempted a forced landing on a highway but collided with trees on approach.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the airplane revealed no evidence of any preimpact mechanical malfunction or failure. Fuel system continuity was established, with no ruptures evident in any line or tank. The Federal Aviation Administration reported that the amount of fuel observed remaining in the fuel tanks was less than 1 gallon and was in the unusable range. A few drops of fuel were observed in the gascolator.
Pilot Comments
The pilot stated that the accident could have been prevented had he refueled at Bakersfield before departure.