Incident Overview
During takeoff, while retracting the landing gear, the pilot heard a noise that sounded like an explosion. The gear-up indicator light did not illuminate, prompting the pilot to attempt gear extension. The main landing gear fully extended, but the nose gear achieved only partial extension. Unable to obtain a safe-down indication, the pilot declared an emergency and initiated an approach to Runway 13. During landing, the aircraft touched down short of the runway. It reportedly rolled onto the runway, at which point the main landing gear collapsed.
Emergency Response
After declaring the emergency, the pilot remained in communication with air traffic control and executed the approach. No further details on the response were provided in the source.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the aircraft revealed that the nosewheel centering cam roller and attaching stud (part number CR-10-1) was broken off, with part of the stud missing. The remaining portion of the stud had fractured at the stud receptacle on the steering yoke support. Approximately half of the fracture area exhibited rust, while the remainder appeared as a shiny silver color, consistent with a recent fracture.