What happened
During preflight preparations for a multi-leg journey, the pilot identified a discrepancy between the requested fuel amount and the readings on the fuel gauges. The pilot proceeded with the flight under the assumption that the right fuel gauge was providing an accurate reading while the left gauge was malfunctioning. After stopping at an intermediate airport, the pilot chose not to refuel, relying again on the right-side gauge indication.
Approximately 50 miles from the intended destination, the low fuel quantity lights for both the left and right tanks illuminated. At this time, the right gauge showed 390 pounds of fuel remaining. The pilot decided to proceed toward the destination despite these warnings. Shortly thereafter, both engines lost power. The pilot executed a forced landing in an open field used for school activities. During the descent and impact, the left wing collided with a football training device, resulting in the separation of the outer four feet of the wing.
Findings
Post-accident inspections determined that the fuel lines, filters, collector tanks, and both main fuel tanks were completely empty. Upon applying electrical power to the system after the crash, the gauges showed a reading of zero on the left side and 290 pounds on the right side. The investigation concluded that the pilot failed to properly monitor fuel levels and did not land immediately upon noticing the initial gauge inconsistencies.