Event
During the landing roll, the airplane suddenly veered to the left and departed the runway. The pilot reported that the left brake felt locked up as the aircraft began to deviate from the paved surface. The airplane then crossed a ditch adjacent to the runway edge, continued through an open field, and ultimately reached a crosswind runway. When the nosewheel contacted the edge of the crosswind runway, it collapsed, causing the airplane to come to a stop on that runway.
Examination
Post-accident examination of the airplane revealed no mechanical anomalies in the flight controls, engine, engine controls, or brakes. Additionally, an airplane and powerplant mechanic at the airport reported that the brakes functioned normally while towing the airplane from the accident site.
Findings
The cause of the runway excursion and subsequent nosewheel collapse could not be determined from the available evidence. No mechanical issues were identified that would explain the reported brake lockup sensation or the loss of directional control.