Incident Details
Shortly after takeoff, the pilot reported that the engine began to sputter and lose power. A forced landing was subsequently made in a nearby river. Upon touchdown, the aircraft nosed over and came to rest partially submerged in approximately four feet of water.
Post-Recovery Examination
After the aircraft was recovered from the river, a post-crash examination was conducted. The examination found no evidence of pre-existing mechanical failure or malfunction. The engine was then test-run using the fuel remaining in the aircraft's fuel tanks. Initially, the engine did not run satisfactorily, but after water was drained from the fuel system and engine, it operated normally.
Environmental Conditions
At the time of the incident, there were extensive rain showers in the area. Additionally, the aircraft was being operated in atmospheric conditions that are conducive to carburetor ice formation.