Incident Overview
A private pilot, who did not hold a multi-engine rating, departed for another airport with the intention of purchasing fuel. The flight proceeded normally until approximately seven miles from the destination, when the right engine ceased producing power.
Pilot Actions and Emergency Response
Upon encountering the initial power loss on the right side, the pilot activated the fuel selector to crossfeed mode. This action successfully restored power to the right engine, allowing the aircraft to continue its approach. However, as the airplane reached a point approximately 2.5 miles from the destination airport, both engines subsequently lost all power.
Landing and Damage Assessment
Faced with a total loss of propulsion, the pilot feathered the propellers to reduce drag and executed an off-airport landing on a nearby road. During the rollout, the aircraft veered into a ditch adjacent to the roadway. This impact caused substantial damage to the left wing and the aft section of the fuselage.
Post-Accident Findings
A thorough post-accident examination of the aircraft revealed no visible fuel remaining in the tanks. The investigation noted that the pilot lacked a multi-engine rating at the time of the incident, which may have influenced the handling of the initial single-engine failure and the subsequent total power loss.