Casualties unknown

High Speed Landing Leads to Runway Excursion, Brake Malfunction Suspected (N9835D)

Van Wert, OH, US

On July 4, 1986, a Piper PA-22-160 (registration N9835D) operated by Donald V.reese was involved in an aviation accident near Van Wert, OH. This summary draws on records from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive.

Sourcesthe U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archivePrimary reportUpdated 2026-06-10Data APIEditorial standards

A pilot reported excessive airspeed on landing and brake failure, prompting a turn off the runway into soft ground. A witness noted a late touchdown, and post-crash inspection found the aircraft movable with brakes applied.

Incident Overview

A pilot reported that during landing, his airspeed was too high and the aircraft's brakes failed to function when he attempted to stop. As the aircraft neared the end of the 3,500-foot runway, the pilot steered it off the runway into a soft grassy area.

Witness Account

Another pilot who witnessed the accident stated that the aircraft did not touch down until it had traveled approximately two-thirds of the way down the runway.

Post-Crash Examination

A post-crash examination of the aircraft revealed that it could be moved by hand with the brakes activated, indicating the braking system may not have been effectively arresting motion at the time of the landing.

Investigation report by the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) historical archive. Original record: https://carol.ntsb.gov/event/20001213X34073. This page is a structured re-presentation; facts and quotes are in the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), United States.