What happened
During the takeoff roll and initial climb phase, the forward baggage compartment door of the aircraft opened and began flapping. The pilot continued the takeoff sequence but subsequently radioed that the door had popped open and that he intended to return to the airport for a landing.
As the aircraft climbed to an altitude of approximately 75 to 100 feet, it was observed flying in a steep climb attitude with very slow airspeed. The aircraft was in a pronounced left turn, exhibiting a left crab or slip. During this maneuver, the passenger in the right front seat reported hearing the intermittent activation of the stall warning horn. The flight ended when the aircraft impacted two utility poles. There were no fatalities reported.
The pilot noted that prior to takeoff, he had accessed the forward baggage compartment to retrieve a quart of oil to replenish the engine oil. He stated he could not recall if the top portion of the door latch had been properly secured before departure.
The investigation
An examination of the aircraft and the engine was conducted. The inspection did not disclose any mechanical problems with the propulsion system or the airframe components examined.