Incident Overview
A medevac flight was initiating takeoff on Runway 03 at Lander, Wyoming. During the takeoff roll, the pilot observed two deer crossing the runway and rotated the aircraft abruptly to avoid a collision. The pilot reported feeling a 'moderate' impact.
Diversion and Landing
After determining that the left main landing gear had been damaged, the pilot decided to divert to Casper, Wyoming, where longer and wider runways, as well as CFR (Crash Fire Rescue) facilities, were available. Following a fuel-burning procedure to reduce weight, the pilot executed an intentional wheels-up landing.
Evacuation and Investigation
The aircraft was evacuated within 40 seconds. Post-accident investigation revealed parts of the left main landing gear and two dead deer on the takeoff runway at Lander.