What happened
Prior to beginning a series of five glider tow flights, the pilot noted that the fuel gauge indicated approximately one-quarter tank of fuel remaining. During the fifth and final tow flight, the pilot released the glider at an altitude of 2,500 feet, approximately 2.5 miles from the departure airport.
While executing a descending 270-degree left turn, the engine began to sputter for several seconds before stopping completely. The engine briefly restarted and ran for a few seconds before failing again. In response to the loss of power, the pilot established a 75-mph glide and turned the aircraft toward the airport.
Despite the pilot cycling the throttle, mixture, and magneto switches, the engine failed to restart. The aircraft subsequently touched down approximately 300 yards east of the runway, where it collided with a paddock fence. There were no injuries reported in the accident.
Findings
Upon inspection of the aircraft following the accident, investigators found no fuel present in the airplane.