Sequence of Events
Approximately 20 minutes after takeoff, while cruising at 5,000 feet, the pilot observed oil on the windshield and noted a decrease in oil pressure. The pilot turned back toward the departure airport and reduced power in an attempt to prolong engine life. Shortly thereafter, the engine began running rough and then failed.
The aircraft was over an area of ground fog, and the pilot could not see the ground. He began gliding at a minimum rate of descent and trimmed the aircraft. Before entering the fog, the occupants fastened their seat belts and braced themselves for impact. Shortly after entering the fog, the aircraft struck six trees and then crashed in a clearing.
Post-Crash Examination
During a post-crash examination, the oil dipstick was found behind the engine, and there were indications that oil had escaped from the top of the engine. The number one connecting rod had failed and punctured the engine case. A teardown of the engine revealed evidence that the engine had been operating without oil prior to the rod failure.