Incident Overview
The aircraft experienced an in-flight failure of the airspeed indicator, as reported by the pilot. During the subsequent landing, the aircraft touched down hard and porpoised along the runway. The nose wheel separated from the aircraft, which then skidded, grinding off the bottom of the carburetor. A fire erupted and consumed the aircraft completely.
Witness Accounts
Witnesses observed the aircraft during its landing sequence. They reported that the airplane appeared to be traveling at a high speed on approach and that the flaps were not deployed.
Investigation
An investigation into the cause of the airspeed indicator malfunction was conducted. However, due to the extensive fire damage sustained by the cockpit and pitot tube, the specific reason for the failure could not be determined.