Accident Details
The pilot departed on his second attempt to reach his destination. According to airport personnel, he did not refuel after returning from the first flight. Before the first departure, he had loaded 43.6 gallons of fuel.
After departing from Rutherfordton on the second flight, the airplane was seen approximately 400 feet above ground level, about 4 miles north of Monroe. A witness reported that the right engine was sputtering as the airplane flew overhead. Moments later, the airplane crashed into a wooded area.
Wreckage Examination
An examination of the wreckage disclosed that the fuel system was empty. No fuel was found in the left engine fuel flow divider. Airport personnel also stated that the pilot was not knowledgeable about the aircraft's fuel system.
Fuel Consumption
According to the owner's manual, the fuel consumption rate for cruise at 75% power was about 16 gallons per hour per engine. The pilot had operated the engines for approximately 2 hours and 10 minutes before they lost power.
Fatalities
The pilot, who was the sole occupant on board, was killed in the accident.