What happened
The pilot contacted air traffic control to report that the engine cowling had become loose. He informed the controller that he intended to proceed directly to his destination airport. Shortly after this communication, radar observations indicated that the airplane diverted from its original course and headed toward an alternate airport.
As the aircraft approached the alternate field, another pilot observed it on final approach with a piece of debris streaming from the fuselage. Witnesses noted that the airplane terminated its approach by turning to the south, a maneuver interpreted as a simulated forced landing attempt. A subsequent witness observed the aircraft continuing its descent until it collided with trees and terrain.
The investigation
Examination of the wreckage revealed that the engine cowling latch had penetrated the oil cooler. This damage resulted in the total exhaustion of engine oil, which led to engine failure and the subsequent forced landing.