Summary
Approximately 7 minutes after takeoff at 1441, the pilot declared an emergency and reported that the left engine had lost power. The pilot feathered the engine, diverted back toward the airport, and descended to visual flight rules (VFR) conditions below the clouds.
Flight Sequence
At 1448, the pilot stated that the airport was in sight and turned onto a left downwind for runway 15. The landing gear was extended, and the pilot began a left turn toward the runway. According to reports, the aircraft was too close in, or the pilot chose to make a right turn away from the airport to land. Witnesses lost sight of the aircraft during the turn due to low clouds or obstructions.
Loss of Control and Impact
The pilot lost sight of the airport for a short time, then relocated it, but reported having his 'hands full.' Shortly thereafter, the aircraft entered a steep descent, struck the edge (roof) of a building, crashed into a utility pole, and then hit the ground and burned. Evidence indicated that the aircraft was inverted just before impact.
Engine Examination
An examination of the left engine revealed that the #6 connecting rod had failed due to oil exhaustion. Only one cup of oil was found in the engine, which had a history of high oil consumption.
Probable Cause
According to the official findings, the accident resulted from a loss of engine power (total) due to mechanical failure from oil starvation, attributed to inadequate preflight by the pilot and operation with known deficiencies. Subsequently, the pilot lost control during an emergency landing due to improper emergency procedures, premature landing gear extension, failure to maintain airspeed (Vmc), and improper aircraft handling. The aircraft then collided with a building, a utility pole, and terrain.
Pilot
The pilot, the sole occupant, was killed in the accident.