Incident Details
According to the pilot, while cruising VFR above mountains and a broken cloud deck at 9,500 feet above mean sea level, he heard a 'significant bang' and a 'clunky metallic sound'. He reported to ATC that the engine then 'quit'. The pilot initiated an emergency descent through clouds, breaking out of the clouds approximately 400 feet above the ground. Due to unsuitable mountainous terrain surrounding the river, he ditched the airplane in a shallow river. During the ditching, the airplane flipped over and was substantially damaged.
Examination Findings
A detailed examination of the engine did not reveal any evidence of preimpact mechanical malfunctions or deficiencies. No evidence was found to support fuel exhaustion or carburetor icing.
Subsequent Events
Approximately 2-1/2 months after this accident, the pilot was involved in another presumed ditching. He reported to ATC that the engine had quit while cruising VFR on a personal flight. The airplane was not found. The pilot disappeared after the presumed ditching and later turned himself in to local authorities. He has since pleaded guilty to charges of False Distress Signals and Mail Fraud.