Accident Sequence
The airplane departed and climbed to an altitude between 100 and 200 feet above ground level before initiating a right turn back toward the runway. Shortly after, it descended into terrain approximately 300 yards south of the departure end of the runway. The impact occurred with the wings level and the nose pitched down about 20 degrees.
Pilot Communication
During the flight, the pilot made a radio transmission stating that he was returning to the airport because he had inadvertently left the oil filler cap off the engine. This omission caused oil to coat the windshield, obstructing the pilot's view.
Post-Accident Observations
First responders at the scene noted that the airplane's windshield was covered in a layer of oil, consistent with the pilot's report.
Pilot Assessment
The pilot reported no preimpact mechanical malfunctions or failures with the airplane. He indicated that the accident could have been prevented if he had remembered to replace the oil cap during the preflight inspection.