What happened
Before departing, the pilot conducted a preflight inspection and confirmed the airplane contained approximately 12 gallons of total fuel. The flight began with the fuel selector valve positioned to the right tank. After approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes of flight, the pilot observed that the right fuel gauge had dropped to 1/4 tank and subsequently switched the fuel source to the left tank.
Roughly one hour later, the pilot noted that the left fuel gauge also indicated 1/4 tank. In preparation for landing, the pilot attempted an approach but then aborted the landing to initiate a go-around. During this maneuver, the aircraft turned to the right and the engine lost power. The pilot performed a forced landing into a field, which resulted in substantial damage to the aircraft.
The investigation
Post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed that approximately 1 gallon of fuel remained in the left tank, while approximately 6 gallons remained in the right tank. A mechanical inspection of both the airplane and the engine showed no deficiencies.