Incident Summary
A pilot reported that while flying at approximately 7,200 feet and 3 miles south of the airport, the airplane's engine began to run rough. The pilot initiated a turn back toward the airport but soon determined that the airport could not be reached. Shortly thereafter, the engine "stopped completely." The pilot decided to attempt a forced landing in a hilly pasture.
During the forced landing, the airplane impacted rough terrain. The impact sheared off the landing gear and bent the right wing upward approximately 3 feet inboard of the tip. Inspectors at the scene also noted that the right wing was broken aft at the wing root. The pilot and passenger sustained minor injuries.
Examination Findings
A post-accident examination of the airplane revealed that the left wing fuel tank was empty. The right wing fuel tank contained some residual fuel. The airplane's fuel selector valve was positioned to the left wing fuel tank. Flight control continuity was confirmed. An examination of the engine, engine controls, and other airplane systems showed no anomalies.