Accident Sequence
The pilot departed on a flight the day after an annual inspection had been completed. Shortly after departure, the pilot reported that the right engine was 'running rough.' The control tower cleared the pilot for an emergency landing back at the airport. While returning, the pilot was unable to maintain altitude, and the aircraft impacted water about 1 mile south of the airport.
According to the pilot's statement, he was flying westbound over water when the right engine 'stopped.' He stated that he 'secured' the right engine, and about 1 minute later, the left engine 'stopped.' He 'secured' the left engine, and the airplane 'hit water.' The pilot indicated that he had been in the air for about 15 minutes when the loss of engine power occurred.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the right engine revealed rusty water in the sediment bowl at the fire wall; rusty water and contamination were also found in the respective fuel servo screen. The left engine sediment bowl was found dry; the respective fuel servo screen was found with rust stains and contamination with 'trash' in the screen. The fuel selector valves operated without any discrepancies. No preimpact mechanical discrepancy was found with either engine.