Flight Details
The pilot reported that the fuel tanks were serviced to capacity before departing from Albuquerque, New Mexico. She then flew to Las Cruces and Silver City, New Mexico. The accident occurred during the return leg from Silver City to Albuquerque.
Engine Failure and Forced Landing
While descending over Belen, New Mexico, the pilot switched the fuel selector from the right tank to the left tank. Approximately 8 miles southwest of Albuquerque, the engine began to lose power. The pilot activated the boost pump in an attempt to restore fuel flow, but shortly afterward the engine stopped completely. Unable to glide to the airport, the pilot turned the airplane toward an open sandy area on top of a mesa and executed a forced landing about 6 miles from the runway.
Accident Sequence
Upon touchdown, the airplane settled into the soft ground, causing the nose landing gear to separate. The airplane then nosed over. An FAA inspector who visited the accident site reported finding fuel present in the fuel tanks.
Aftermath
No further details about the aircraft or occupants were provided in the source. The investigation did not state a probable cause.