What happened
During the flight, the pilot notified air traffic control of engine problems and requested vectors to Pine Mountain or the nearest available airport. The controller provided vectors to the nearest airport; however, the pilot subsequently reported a complete loss of engine power. Upon inquiry regarding the number of occupants and remaining fuel, the pilot stated there were 40 gallons of fuel on board but indicated they would be unable to reach the airport, necessitating a landing in a clearing. Radar contact was lost approximately 8 miles north of the Columbus VOR.
The investigation
Examination of the crash site determined that the forced landing area was unsuitable due to the presence of trees and high vegetation. Investigation of the aircraft revealed that the left and right wing fuel tanks, as well as the left and right auxiliary fuel tanks, had been ruptured. There was no evidence of browning of vegetation along the debris line. The fuel caps were found to be secure with a tight seal, and no fuel streaking was observed on the upper or lower surfaces of the wings.
Further inspection showed the fuel line was disconnected from the flow divider and contained no fuel. When the fuel strainer was manually operated, approximately three ounces of fuel were collected, and an additional ounce was recovered after the strainer was removed. A review of refueling records indicated the aircraft had been topped off prior to departure. Additionally, a review of the Pilot's Operating Handbook performance section confirmed that the pilot had sufficient fuel for the planned flight, including required reserves. An engine test run performed during the investigation demonstrated that the engine was capable of producing power and showed no discrepancies or anomalies.