Engine Power Loss
During a fish-spotting mission over the ocean, the pilot noticed a decrease in engine power. A scan of the cockpit gauges showed no anomalies except for a slight rise in oil temperature. The pilot maneuvered the aircraft toward land, but the oil temperature continued to climb.
Loud Bang and Vibration
As the pilot continued toward shore, a loud "bang" was heard, followed by vibration. Engine oil then began covering the windshield, and the aircraft continued to lose altitude.
Ditching
With the engine still running, the pilot ditched the aircraft in the ocean approximately 5 miles from the coastline. The aircraft sank to the ocean floor, which was about 1,200 feet underwater.