Accident Overview
While descending for landing, the airplane's engine lost power. The pilot was able to restore engine power for a few seconds, but it then sputtered and lost power again. Unable to restart the engine, the pilot set up a glide for the airstrip he was descending to. Due to a headwind, he realized he could not make the airstrip and performed a forced landing in a field.
Sequence of Events
During the forced landing, the airplane's landing gear struck the top of a tree. The airplane pitched down and impacted the ground, sustaining substantial damage to the fuselage and tail.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the airplane and engine by a Federal Aviation Administration inspector revealed that all fuel tanks were devoid of fuel. Only three drops of fuel were discovered in the carburetor and fuel supply line. There was no evidence of any pre-impact mechanical malfunction of the airplane or engine.