Flight History
According to statements from the pilot and passengers, after departure the aircraft climbed to about 2,000 feet mean sea level over the water and cruised along the south coast of an unnamed island. The flight's intention was to circumnavigate the island before returning to Torrance.
Loss of Engine Power
The pilot reported that the engine began to sputter. Passengers described the engine making a dieseling type noise. All three persons noted that the propeller continued to turn, but the engine seemed to produce no power output.
Forced Landing Attempt
The pilot immediately turned back toward the airport, but the aircraft was losing altitude. He believed they would not clear the hills between their position and the field. Observing a relatively flat plateau, the pilot turned toward it with the intention of landing on a dirt road.
Collision and Fire
While descending toward the road, the aircraft collided with a scrub oak tree short of the open area. After coming to rest, the aircraft caught fire. The post-crash fire totally consumed the aircraft.
Investigation Findings
All engine accessories, including the ignition and fuel systems, were destroyed by the fire. During a teardown examination of the engine, no unusual internal engine operating condition was noted.