Landing and Gear Separation
At the conclusion of an aerial application flight, the pilot was aware of a crosswind from the right. The pilot touched the aircraft down on the right main landing gear and maintained that attitude for approximately 300 feet down the runway. When the left main landing gear contacted the runway, it folded back and separated from the fuselage.
Post-Separation Sequence
After the left main landing gear separated, the aircraft skidded to the left side of the runway, struck a dirt bank, and nosed down.
Reporting and Evidence
The accident was reported after the aircraft had been moved by maintenance personnel. During this process, evidence was destroyed that could have determined whether a bolt found near the aircraft had fallen from it. The bolt was identified as a gear bolt of the same size and type as that used to fasten the landing gear root to the landing gear box. The bolt was identified as an MS-20009-140.
Investigation Status
The investigation into the accident is ongoing, with focus on the landing gear system and the circumstances of the landing.