What happened
The aircraft touched down on an unimproved ridge located approximately 2000 feet above sea level. The landing area was restricted, measuring only 1100 feet in length and featuring a distinct crown along its longitudinal axis. According to the pilot, the initial touchdown occurred within the first 100 feet of the available runway surface.
As the aircraft rolled over the central crown of the ridge, the pilot applied the brakes. This action appeared to contribute to the tail lifting slowly rather than remaining grounded. Consequently, the propeller struck the ground, causing the nose gear to collapse and the aircraft to nosed over forward.
The investigation
Examination of the wreckage revealed damage consistent with a nose-over incident. The primary mechanical failure was the propeller striking the terrain due to excessive tail lift during the rollout phase on the crowned surface.