Runway excursion during gusty crosswind landing (N2275E)

What happened

The pilot was conducting a landing approach on Runway 6 under windy conditions. Just prior to touchdown, the pilot reported that the aircraft appeared to be forced downward onto the runway surface. Immediately following contact with the pavement, the airplane veered sharply to the right.

Despite applying rudder inputs and braking, the pilot stated these controls had no effect in turning the airplane back toward the runway centerline. The aircraft continued its departure from the paved surface and subsequently contacted trees located on the side of the runway.

Findings

The pilot reported wind conditions at the time of the incident as being from the south at 15 knots with gusts reaching 20 knots. These gusty crosswind conditions likely contributed to the loss of directional control during the critical phase of landing.