Accident Sequence
A student pilot was conducting an approved solo cross-country flight when he became lost. He then attempted to land at an airport approximately 10 statute miles away from his intended destination. During his first approach to that airport, he realized he was too high and executed a go-around. While performing a 360-degree turn with full power and partial flaps, the aircraft settled into a nearby river. The aircraft subsequently sank in the river.
A witness reported that the aircraft appeared to have stalled into the river.
Post-Accident Examination
After the aircraft was recovered from the river, investigators found the throttle in the full open position. The mixture control was set to rich, and the carburetor heat was off. A thorough examination of the aircraft revealed no mechanical failures or malfunctions.