Accident Sequence
The pilot reported that during the landing rollout on runway 27, the left wheel separated from the airplane. This allowed the left landing gear to drag along the runway surface. Subsequently, the airplane bounced, veered to the right, and skidded to a stop. As the aircraft came to a halt, the left landing gear collapsed. The pilot stated that the landing was not hard and that the winds were light and variable.
Examination and Findings
Examination of the left landing gear revealed that the axle spindle had fractured and separated. Metallurgical analysis of the fracture surfaces identified overstress fractures and evidence of excessive sideloads. The airplane also sustained damage to the left wing tip, aileron, left horizontal stabilizer, and left elevator. Airport winds were reported from 360 degrees at 6 knots a few minutes after the accident.