Background
During a landing approach, a pilot reported that when the landing gear was extended, the sounds and sensations were normal, yet the gear indicator showed an unsafe condition. The pilot made a low pass over the airport, and tower personnel visually confirmed that all three landing gear appeared to be down and locked.
Sequence of Events
Seeking further assurance, the pilot requested a Mooney mechanic to also examine the gear. The mechanic manually locked the gear into place and stated that the gear did appear to be down and locked, adding that such issues typically originate from the indicator rather than the gear mechanism. Despite the unsafe light remaining illuminated, the pilot decided to proceed with the landing. During the landing roll, the landing gear collapsed, and the airplane veered off the south side of runway 28 into the dirt.
Probable Cause
According to the pilot's accident report, the reason for the collapse of the landing gear had not been determined.