Clearly, the true cause of this accident will never be known. Whether driving vehicles at speed, or flying aircraft at speed, humans make mistakes sadly.
Looking at the impact scene from the image posted, and the spread (or lack of) of debris, I wonder if we are simply talking basic human error. I really don’t mean that in a negative way, but we all make honest mistakes - some have more drastic results than others.
Looking at the press release from the USN, the Pilot was clearly an experienced man. Let’s not forget that away from work he was probably just like the rest of us. RIP.
TN.