Incident Overview
While en route to a fuel stop, a pilot noticed that the fuel gauges indicated below 5 gallons per tank. After monitoring the gauges and seeing them stabilize, the pilot regained confidence in the fuel calculations. Approximately 14 miles south of Holly Springs, Mississippi, near Potts Camp, the engine ceased operating.
Forced Landing
The pilot established best glide speed and selected a field for a forced landing. Attempts to restart the engine were unsuccessful. During the landing rollout, the aircraft's nose wheel became entangled in a wire fence, resulting in damage to the airplane.
Post-Accident Examination
An FAA inspector responded to the scene and observed no fuel in the aircraft. Following recovery, an FAA-licensed airframe and powerplant mechanic, under FAA supervision, examined the airplane and found no anomalies. After providing fuel and replacing the damaged propeller, the engine operated normally during testing.