I knew and flew with the pilot killed on H.I. on several occasions. He was a live wire alright but not an idiot. He had a G2 IR and a fair bit of exp. Why did he turn back? I dont know but just consider the scenario for a second. Engine failure, first thing trained to do: Attempt Restart (Our flying school policy), If no go, then land ahead. So the engine dies, lose a few seconds just pannicking, then another 15 seconds trying to restart, all the while heading out to sea with 6 on board (including two kids) and only one door? I would have probably attempted a turn back too. I think he probably made his call in a knee jerk re-action. Terrible tragedy for sure, but lets not sit around and preach about EFATO drills and how "I would never do that", when very few of us have ever been in his shoes and had to make the call and ride out the consequences.
RIP Andrew Mate.
Hope the Surfs up wherever you are