Primary finding
Probable cause
Improper use of the fuel selectors, which resulted in fuel starvation and loss of power in both engines. Darkness was a related factor.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
Before takeoff, the pilot refueled the main tanks, but did not refuel the auxiliary tanks. While approaching her destination airport and using the auxiliary tanks, she experienced a double power loss. She was unable to get the engines restarted. During an off airport landing, the airplane struck a small building and a security fence. An examination of the airplane revealed the auxiliary tanks were intact with no evidence of leakage and that they were empty. The right main tank had 20 gallons of fuel remaining; the left main had been ruptured at the accident site and was empty. Fuel was found on the ground around the airplane.
Source record
Factual narrative
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