Incident Overview
A pilot reported that shortly after takeoff, at approximately 50 feet above the ground, they detected smoke odor and subsequently observed smoke in the cockpit. Deciding to abort the takeoff, the pilot initiated a return to the runway and landed. The aircraft bounced once before settling onto the runway. After touchdown, the pilot steered straight ahead while applying full braking. When it became apparent that the aircraft would not stop before the trees at the end of the runway, the pilot executed a hard turn to the right.
Sequence of Events
During the hard right turn, the left main landing gear failed, causing the left wing to contact the ground. The aircraft then came to a stop. Examination of the wreckage revealed that a chafed auto battery cable located aft of the firewall had ignited the soundproofing material on the firewall, producing the smoke observed in the cockpit.
Investigation Findings
The source of the smoke was identified as a fire in the soundproofing on the firewall, initiated by a chafed auto battery cable. No other factors were cited by the investigation.