Accident Overview
On May 14, 2019, at approximately 1920 Pacific daylight time, a Cessna T210L, registration N732DK, was substantially damaged in an accident near Medford, Oregon. The private pilot and one passenger received minor injuries. The flight was conducted under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal flight.
Flight Details
The pilot reported completing a cross-country flight from French Valley Airport (F70) in Murrieta, California, to Beagle Sky Ranch Airport (OR96) in Medford, Oregon. Shortly after departing on the return flight, the engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot attributed the power loss to having run out of fuel.
Actions Taken
Attempting to return to the airport for landing, the pilot switched fuel tanks but did not activate the fuel boost pump. Engine power was not restored. The pilot subsequently performed a forced landing in a field short of the runway. During the landing, the airplane sustained substantial damage.
Damage and Fuel Status
A Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inspector who responded to the accident site noted that the airplane sustained substantial damage to the tail section. One fuel tank was found dry, while the other contained fuel. The FAA inspector did not quantify the amount of fuel onboard, but the pilot reported that the airplane contained 20 gallons.
Injuries
The pilot and passenger both received minor injuries as a result of the accident.