What happened
The pilot reported that the aircraft experienced an unexpected loss of engine power while descending through approximately 2,000 feet above ground level. In response to the emergency, the pilot initiated a forced landing procedure, aiming for a nearby parking lot. During the approach and touchdown phase, the aircraft struck trees before coming to rest in the intended area.
The investigation
Following the accident, an FAA inspector conducted a thorough post-crash examination of the airplane. The inspection focused on the fuel system to determine the cause of the power loss. Investigators found that there was no fuel remaining in either the fuel tanks or the fuel lines.
Findings
The primary factor contributing to this accident was fuel exhaustion. The lack of fuel in the system directly caused the engine to stop producing power, leaving the pilot with no option but to execute an emergency landing. The subsequent collision with trees occurred during the execution of this forced landing attempt.