What happened
While performing the landing rollout on Runway 3, which is an asphalt runway measuring 5,799 feet in length and 150 feet in width, the airplane began a rightward turn. The pilot attempted to counteract this movement by applying full left rudder; however, the aircraft failed to respond to the input. In an attempt to regain control, the pilot applied full throttle to initiate a takeoff, but this action caused the right turn to tighten. Following this, the pilot reduced power, which led to a ground loop that resulted in the aircraft exiting the runway.
During the course of the ground loop, the left wing tip made contact with the ground, causing the rear wing spar to bend. At the time of the event, winds at the airport were reported from 310 degrees at 4 knots.
The investigation
An examination of the aircraft was conducted following the incident. Investigators found that the left main wheel axle was bent inward, though there was no evidence of rust or corrosion present on the component. The inspection concluded that there was no evidence of a mechanical malfunction contributing to the event.