Event Summary
On approach to the destination, the airplane experienced a loss of engine power due to fuel exhaustion. The pilot performed a forced landing in a residential area. During the landing, the airplane impacted a power transmission line and trees. The pilot reported the accident time as 2150 central daylight time.
Pilot Account
The pilot stated that he departed at 1815 central daylight time with approximately 18.5 gallons of usable fuel. He flew for about 3.0 hours and then made a precautionary landing because he was concerned about fuel. At that time, he observed about 4 gallons in each wing tank, totaling approximately 8 gallons. The pilot reported that the flight to the final destination normally takes about 20 minutes. He determined there was sufficient fuel to make the flight and departed again at 2110.
While on approach to the final destination, the engine began to sputter. The pilot believed they were running out of fuel. He was approximately 1.25 miles from the runway and did not have sufficient altitude to glide to the airport.
After the accident, the pilot checked the winds aloft forecast. He noted that the wind velocities were significantly higher than when he had checked prior to the original 1815 departure.
Outcome
The airplane struck a power transmission line and trees in the residential area. The pilot reported the accident time as 2150.