Incident Description
Shortly after takeoff, while climbing to 1,400 feet, the pilot noticed a strong odor of fuel in the cabin. Soon after, the engine lost power. The pilot was unable to restart the engine and subsequently ditched the aircraft in the Gulf of Mexico, approximately one-quarter mile south of Cedar Key, Florida. The aircraft sank in 20 feet of water and was later recovered.
Investigation Results
An examination of the engine, fuel system, and related components was conducted after recovery. The investigation found no evidence of any preimpact part failure or malfunction. However, considerable impact damage was observed, consistent with the forces experienced during the ditching.