What happened
During the landing phase on runway 18, which measures 8,300 feet in length, the aircraft touched down with the tailwheel first, followed by the main landing gear. The touchdown resulted in a slight bounce. Following this, the aircraft began to track toward the left, prompting a correction from the pilot. As the aircraft crossed over the centerline, it developed a rightward veer that the pilot was unable to arrest. The aircraft subsequently departed the right side of the runway. During this excursion, the left main landing gear separated from the aircraft.
Evidence at the scene included a single tire smear mark on the runway, which originated at the centerline, arced to the right, and oscillated briefly before exiting the runway edge. Additionally, a blue smear mark was found near the runway's edge, consistent with the paint from the aircraft's left wingtip. Weather conditions recorded two minutes after the accident indicated winds from the southwest at 4 knots.
The investigation
Investigators performed a metallurgical examination of the bolt for the left main landing gear. This examination revealed smearing of the bolt threads.