Incident Overview
A certificated flight instructor (CFI) and a student pilot were conducting a training flight. During the takeoff roll, the student pilot, who was performing the takeoff, accelerated the aircraft to 65 knots. At that point, the student panicked for no apparent reason and pulled the throttle back to abort the takeoff.
Instructor's Actions
The CFI recognized that insufficient runway remained to safely stop the aircraft. He therefore took control of the airplane and continued the takeoff. The aircraft became airborne and cleared trees at the departure end of the runway. However, the CFI stated that the airplane was too low to gain airspeed or establish a positive rate of climb.
Ditching Decision
Facing trees and rising terrain immediately ahead, the CFI elected to land in a river. This ditching resulted in substantial damage to the airplane.
Outcome
The aircraft sustained substantial damage. No other details regarding occupants or injuries were provided in the source.