Accident Sequence
According to the pilot, the wind was light and variable from the northwest, as indicated by a Unicom report and a windsock at the north end of the airport. While turning onto final approach for Runway 4, the airplane drifted slightly to the right of the runway centerline due to the wind. The pilot corrected the drift and executed a wheel landing.
As the airplane's speed decreased below 50 mph, the tail wheel settled onto the runway. At that point, the airplane experienced a slight shudder and then began to veer to the right. The pilot applied full right aileron, left rudder, and left brake in an attempt to counteract the veer, but these inputs were ineffective.
Aircraft Damage
After the left wing contacted the ground, the airplane departed the right side of the runway and entered soft dirt. The left main landing gear was sheared off during the excursion.
Witness Report
Another pilot reported observing a dust devil on the south side of the airport shortly before the accident occurred. The dust devil may have been associated with the wind conditions present at the time.