Flight Details
Before the repositioning flight, the pilot had placed a fuel order for the twin-engine airplane but did not verify that the aircraft was actually refueled. He had previously completed a cross-country flight with eight passengers, which arrived at the destination without any issues. After the passengers deplaned, the pilot departed alone for a repositioning flight.
Engine Malfunctions
Shortly after takeoff, at an altitude of about 400 feet above ground level (AGL), the left engine began to sputter. The pilot executed the engine failure checklist. As he retarded the left throttle, the airplane yawed to the left, giving the pilot the impression that the left engine was still producing power. Based on this impression, he decided not to shut down the left engine. Instead, he began a right turn to return to the departure airport. During the turn, the right engine also started to sputter. The pilot then noticed that both fuel tank indicators were reading empty. Concluding that fuel exhaustion was the cause, the pilot decided to leave all controls forward and did not attempt to shut down or feather either engine.
Forced Landing
Soon after, the pilot realized that he would not be able to reach the runway. He elected to perform a forced landing in an open field. During the landing roll, the airplane encountered a ditch, leading to the collapse of the left main landing gear.