At 1045 Eastern time, the airplane experienced a partial loss of engine power during climbout. The solo private pilot performed a forced landing in the Kissimmee River, which resulted in substantial damage to the fuselage but no injuries. Visual conditions prevailed.
The pilot later stated the engine lost partial power at approximately 200 feet agl and was running rough. The pilot verified the mixture was full rich and applied carburetor heat in an unsuccessful attempt to restore the engine to full power. He maintained airspeed and elected to land in the Kissimmee River, which was straight ahead. The fuselage buckled during the forced landing.
