Accident Overview
On July 20, 2022, at about 2330 central daylight time, a Beech E33A airplane (registration N7555N) was substantially damaged during a forced landing near Zena, Oklahoma. The pilot and one passenger were not injured. The flight was operated under Title 14 Code of Federal Regulations Part 91 as a personal cross-country flight.
Flight History
The pilot reported a night cross-country flight originating from Colorado Springs, Colorado, destined for Siloam Springs, Arkansas. The pilot intended to refuel at South Grand Lake Regional Airport (1K8) in Ketchum, Oklahoma, due to lower fuel prices. The pilot could not recall the fuel quantity at departure from Colorado Springs. After approximately 2.5 hours of flight, the pilot believed the airplane was about to run out of fuel. Approaching the destination airport, the engine experienced a total loss of power. The pilot performed a forced landing to a field approximately 1 mile from the intended fuel stop, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing and front of the fuselage.
Postaccident Examination
An examination of the engine revealed no mechanical malfunctions that would have prevented normal operation. The propeller assembly rotated freely with normal thumb compression. Spark plugs showed normal wear. Valve and drive-train continuity to the accessory section was verified. Throttle body and mixture control linkages in the cockpit and engine were intact. Flight control continuity was confirmed from the cockpit to all control surfaces.
Fuel System Findings
The left wing fuel tank was empty. The right wing fuel tank contained approximately 1 inch of fuel. No fuel leaks were observed at the accident site, and no fuel blight was present on the ground. The fuel selector was positioned to the left fuel tank.
Additional Information
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) did not receive a Pilot/Operator Aircraft Accident Report (Form 6120) from the pilot or owner. The owner reported selling the airplane after the accident and could not provide maintenance records.