Sequence of Events
Shortly after takeoff, the engine lost power. One witness stated that the engine did not completely quit. Another witness reported that it quit, but restarted and then operated with partial power. According to reports, the aircraft remained in a nose-high attitude, then the nose dropped and the plane crashed in a left-wing-low attitude.
Post-Impact Examination
During impact, fuel lines to the left tank failed and fuel drained into the cockpit. When examined, the right fuel tank still contained fuel. The gascolator was checked and was found containing mostly water.
Pilot Information
The pilot had no recollection of having made the flight; however, he believed that he drained the sumps, since that was his habit. There was no record of refueling the aircraft where it was normally serviced.