Sequence of Events
The accident occurred during a round trip flight that began and ended in Los Angeles, California. Prior to the initial departure, the pilot removed a significant amount of water from the fuel tanks. After starting the engine using battery power, the pilot, accompanied by two passengers, flew to Santa Catalina Island for lunch. The group then traveled to Torrance, California, where the aircraft was refueled with 27 gallons of 80/87 octane fuel. The return leg to Los Angeles commenced with a takeoff from Torrance.
Observers on the ground noted that after takeoff, the aircraft climbed at a shallow angle. During the climb, the engine's power audibly decreased. The aircraft then entered a steep bank, momentarily leveled its wings, and then entered another steep bank. Following the second bank, the nose pitched down, and the aircraft dove into the ground, resulting in a crash and fire.
Examination
Investigators examined the wreckage and completely disassembled the engine. The examination found no evidence of any malfunction or failure that could have caused the accident prior to impact. The last annual inspection of the aircraft was dated March 17, 1981, and the last annual inspection of the engine was dated February 22, 1980.