Incident Summary
A private pilot, who also served as an A&P mechanic, was ferrying an aircraft to his fixed-base operator (FBO) for an annual inspection. During final approach to Runway 32, a 3,300-foot-long by 50-foot-wide asphalt runway, the pilot reported encountering strong turbulence. The aircraft touched down approximately 200 feet short of the runway on a paved highway. After touchdown, the aircraft slid onto the runway and executed a slow left turn before coming to rest 300 feet left of the runway centerline. The landing gear completely collapsed during the event.
Post-Accident Inspection
A post-accident inspection revealed evidence that the left tire had made hard contact with the surface. The left strut exhibited scrape marks within a 5-foot area. The aircraft bounced back into the air after the initial touchdown, and upon the second touchdown, the left propeller blade left strike marks.
Pilot's Observations
The pilot stated that he believed the aircraft encountered low-level wind shear on final approach. He also expressed the opinion that the left axle may have broken due to fatigue. However, an FAA airworthiness inspector examined the axle and reported that no evidence of pre-existing cracks or fatigue was discovered.