Background
A student pilot flew an aircraft from a private strip to a nearby airport in Statesboro, Georgia, for refueling. After the aircraft was refueled, the engine lost power as the pilot was taxiing for takeoff. Water was found in the sumps, and reportedly, four to six samples were required to drain water from each tank. After the engine was started, the aircraft was flown to Swainsboro, Georgia. The pilot then took off on a flight to Waynesboro, Georgia, with a passenger aboard.
Event
The pilot reportedly missed the destination airport and began an approach to land at Bush Field in Augusta, Georgia. While on approach, the engine lost power, and the student pilot was unable to restart it. During an emergency landing, the aircraft collided with trees, causing extensive damage to both wings.
Post-Crash Examination
A post-crash examination revealed no evidence of mechanical failure. Fluid drained from the carburetor and gascolator was mostly water. The student pilot noted that the aircraft's fuel tanks had a tendency to accumulate water when parked for any length of time; however, the source of the water was not verified. A check of the student pilot's blood showed an alcohol level of 0.262%.