Primary finding
Probable cause
Fuel exhaustion induced power loss. A factor was the lack of suitable terrain for the forced landing.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
The aircraft was found in a wooded area during morning hours. It had reportedly been stolen the previous evening from a private airport. The time of the alleged theft, number of persons aboard, and injuries to the person(s) is unknown. Examination of the aircraft provided information that no fuel was aboard at the time of the accident, and there was no evidence of system or aircraft failure or malfunction. The injury summary above is presumed.
Source record
Factual narrative
On July 15, 1993, at approximately 0855 central daylight time, a Cessna 172XP, N736TJ, was found in a wooded area near Allen, Texas. The aircraft owner stated that the aircraft was stolen sometime during the evening of July 14, 1993, and sustained substantial damage. The number of persons on board, identities, and injuries, if any, are unknown. The aircraft was based at Dallas Air Park, (F69), and reportedly had departed from that facility. Examination of the aircraft produced no evidence of structural or system failure or malfunction; however, no fuel was found in the aircraft and fuel system integrity was not compromised. Evidence that the occupant(s) had unsuccessfully attempted to set the aircraft on fire was present. (Reference the narrative section of NTSB Form 6120.1/2, Pilot/Operator Report). -