What happened
The pilot departed from Mackinac Island with 12 gallons of fuel in each tank, intending to fly to Pellston, Michigan, for refueling. After takeoff, the pilot received vectors for an ILS approach to Pellston. At the time, weather at Pellston included moderate rain, 2-1/2 mile visibility, and ceilings of 800 feet broken and 1,5 and overcast.
During the approach, the pilot reported losing the localizer signal. After receiving vectors to intercept the localizer, the pilot notified Air Route Traffic Control Center (ARTCC) that the aircraft was low on fuel. Following a missed approach at Pellston, the pilot requested information regarding nearby airports with better visibility. After reviewing weather information and a pilot report for Charlevoix, the pilot decided to proceed toward Charlevoix and then toward Gaylord, Michigan.
Approximately six minutes later, the pilot reported losing an engine. Despite being informed that Harbor Springs Airport (D87) was 8 miles southeast, the pilot expressed a desire to continue to Gaylord, stating there was insufficient fuel to reach D87. The controller then advised that the aircraft was positioned 8 miles in front of D87 and was set up for an RNAV approach to runway 10. The pilot requested assistance with the approach instructions.
Approximately 13 minutes after the initial engine failure, the pilot reported losing the second engine. The controller provided vectors to direct the aircraft back toward D87. Upon exiting the clouds, the pilot reported being 300 to 400 feet above the water and seeing the shoreline to the left. The pilot executed a 30-degree turn toward the shore and placed the airplane down on the shoreline, where the aircraft nosed over.
The investigation
An examination of the airplane showed no anomalies.