What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 2002-07-16 involved a Cessna 210A, registration N9466X, operated by Stephen M. Sims, at Sherman, TX.

Forced Landing After Total Engine Power Loss During Approach (N9466X)

On July 16, 2002, a Cessna 210A (registration N9466X) operated by Stephen M. Sims was involved in an aviation accident near Sherman, TX. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: fuel starvation. A contributing factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

During approach at 800 ft AGL, the engine lost total power. The pilot attempted three restarts without success and executed a forced landing to a parking lot. Examination revealed the left fuel tank empty and the right tank containing 13 gallons, with the fuel selector on the right tank.

Pre-Flight Fuel Check

Prior to departure for a 10-minute flight, the pilot verified that each wing fuel tank contained approximately 14 gallons of fuel.

Flight and Power Loss

The flight proceeded with the fuel selector positioned on the right tank for its entire duration. While on approach to the destination airport, the airplane was in a left bank at 800 feet above ground level when the engine experienced a total loss of power.

Attempted Restart and Forced Landing

The pilot attempted to restart the engine three times, alternating the fuel selector between both tanks, but was unsuccessful. Subsequently, a forced landing was executed to a vacant parking lot adjacent to a gas station, located two miles northeast of the destination airport.

Post-Accident Examination

Examination of the airplane revealed that the fuel selector remained in the right tank position and the fuel boost pump was in the "ON" position. The left fuel tank was found to contain no fuel, while the right fuel tank contained 13 gallons.

2002-07-16: Cessna 210A (N9466X) — Stephen M. Sims — Sherman, TX