Accident Sequence
During the takeoff roll, the aircraft climbed to approximately 500 feet above ground level. The pilot then began a turn, during which the engine lost power. An emergency landing was executed in a plowed field with the landing gear and flaps retracted. After touchdown, the aircraft slid for roughly 100 yards before coming to a stop in a canal.
Investigation
Post-accident examination revealed that the aircraft had recently undergone maintenance on its magnetos to comply with an airworthiness directive requiring replacement of a gear. A subsequent engine teardown identified that a retaining screw for the cam in the magneto was loose.
Injuries
The passenger was reported not to be wearing a shoulder harness. As a result, the passenger sustained a fractured sternum and multiple bruises, particularly about the head.