Accident Overview
The accident airplane, registration N5747U, was found in the Mississippi River. The pilot was found fatally injured. Examination of the wreckage revealed no signs of engine or airframe preimpact anomalies.
Weather and Witness Reports
Automated Flight Service Station briefed the pilot of N5747U six times, and in each briefing the pilot was told that a visual flight rules (VFR) flight was not recommended. Two witnesses reported hearing an airplane fly overhead and then silence; both described the weather as dark and raining. A witness who flew in the local area stated that he descended into visual conditions at about 450 to 500 ft above ground level and that conditions were consistent throughout the area.
Aircraft Examination
All engine cylinders exhibited thumb compression, and engine control continuity was found. Both magnetos produced spark at all leads. Fuel was found in the hose leading to the carburetor, and fuel exited the hose when the engine was rotated. A fuel-like smell was present when the fuel tanks were recovered. Flight control continuity was found to all surfaces except to the left aileron. The left wing, outboard of the spar joint splice, was not found.