Accident Overview
A pilot of a single-engine airplane reported that the engine stopped producing power during the final leg of a multi-segment cross-country flight, approximately 10 minutes after takeoff. The pilot was unable to restart the engine and executed a forced landing in a field near the destination airport. During the landing roll, the airplane collided with a ditch, resulting in structural damage to the firewall.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that before departing on the final leg, the airplane's fuel quantity indicators showed levels "just under" 1/2 and 1/8 full. He added that he did not visually inspect the fuel quantity in the tanks during the preflight inspection.
Postaccident Examination
Postaccident examination revealed structural damage to the firewall. The fuel system, including the tanks, was intact and no leaks were observed. An airframe and powerplant mechanic who recovered the wreckage reported that there was no fuel in the left tank and approximately 3/4 of a gallon of fuel in the right fuel tank. No preaccident mechanical deficiencies with the airframe or engine were noted.