Incident Details
During final approach for landing, the airplane experienced a loss of engine power, leading to a forced landing that resulted in damage. The pilot reported that the fuel gauges indicated slightly less than 1/4 tank on the left and 1/4 tank on the right. He had flown over the intended airport at 9,000 feet above mean sea level and descended using left-hand turns, remaining directly over the airport while descending.
Pilot Actions
While in the traffic pattern, approximately 1 mile from the airport on final approach, the engine lost power. The fuel selector had been positioned to the right fuel tank. The pilot attempted to restart the engine but was unsuccessful. He then attempted to land on a frontage road. According to the pilot, the airplane stalled and impacted the east side of an interstate highway, bounced across the highway, and came to rest on the west embankment.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the airplane by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed no usable fuel remaining in either fuel tank.