Incident Description
During the landing roll, the nosewheel began to shimmy as the brakes were being applied. The nose gear subsequently failed at the end of the runway, allowing the aircraft to continue off the paved surface and down an embankment. The aircraft then nosed over.
Pilot's Account
The pilot stated that he touched down approximately 100 feet past the runway numbers and that the left brake was not functioning. When the nosewheel started to shimmy, he initiated a go-around but aborted it because the shaking became too severe.
Witness Observations
A witness reported seeing the aircraft on a steep final approach and observed no flare-out. The witness stated that the aircraft touched down near midfield in a three-point attitude, without bouncing.
Passenger Account
A passenger indicated that the aircraft landed with no flaps, approximately one-third down the runway. He described the touchdown as smooth, and stated that the nosewheel did not shimmy until the tires squealed from heavy braking.
Examination Findings
Post-accident examination of the brakes revealed no pre-crash malfunctions. The nosewheel shimmy damper was found broken from the nose strut, with evidence of ground impact.