Airplane Swerves Off Runway After Brake Failure During Straight-In Approach (N8350Z)

Narrative

The pilot reported that during a straight-in approach to the airport, the airspeed was maintained at 110 knots due to a very rough ride. The airplane crossed the runway threshold at 100 knots and touched down approximately 1,000 feet down the runway. Upon applying brake pressure, the pilot noticed a lack of pressure on the left brake pedal. After pumping the pedal three times and reapplying the brakes, the airplane had progressed to three-quarters of the way down the runway. Just before reaching the displaced threshold, the airplane swerved to the right. The pilot then swerved to the left in an attempt to turn onto the grass. The airplane slid sideways in the grass, crashing into a fence and coming to rest in a ditch.

Examination Findings

Examination of the runway revealed tire marks beginning a third of the way from the approach end and running evenly down the runway until departing the prepared surface. Tire impressions in the grass continued from the end of the runway, veering left, and ending at the spot where the airplane came to rest. Examination of the wreckage revealed no anomalies.