What happened
Following a completed preflight inspection, the pilot took off and began departing the traffic pattern. During this phase of flight, the engine began to flutter and emit loud metal-to-metal sounds. The pilot attempted to return the aircraft to the departure airport but was unable to maintain flight.
In an effort to ensure safety, the pilot ditched the unspecified aircraft in the Pacific Ocean as close to a nearby boat as possible. The pilot and all passengers were subsequently picked up by a small boat. The aircraft sank following the ditching.
The investigation
Because the aircraft and the engine were not recovered from the ocean, investigators were unable to determine the specific mechanical reason for the loss of engine power.