What happened
After completing the only available localizer approach through a 1,200-foot overcast, the pilot was cleared for the option. The pilot chose to land straight ahead with a 6-knot tailwind, touching down approximately 1,500 feet down the 4,500-foot runway.
During the landing rollout, the pilot discovered that there was almost no pressure available in the toe brakes. An attempt to establish brake pressure using the emergency handle failed to produce any significant pressure. Consequently, the airplane rolled off the end of the runway and into a brook.
The investigation
An examination of the wreckage showed that there were no ruptures in the hydraulic lines. Investigators found hydraulic fluid pooled under the rudder pedals and identified leaks originating from both brake cylinders. During testing, it was determined that no brake pressure could be established using the toe brakes; the emergency hand brake required four pumps before any pressure developed in the toe brakes. Records indicated that maintenance had been performed on the aircraft three months prior to the accident, which included replenishing the reservoir and bleeding the brake system.