What happened
A solo private certificated pilot was attempting to land on a remote, sand-covered beach. During the approach, the pilot observed a small creek located at the approach end of the intended landing site. As the pilot performed the landing flare, the aircraft encountered a slight downdraft, which caused it to descend below the intended glide path.
During the landing attempt, the main wheels struck the bank of the creek. This impact caused the right main landing gear to collapse, subsequently leading to the right wing striking the beach. The pilot was not injured in the accident.
The investigation
The aircraft sustained structural damage to the fuselage, both right lift struts, and the right wing. Prior to the accident, the pilot reported that there were no mechanical anomalies noted with the aircraft.