What happened
During the landing roll, the pilot attempted to exit the runway onto a taxiway. During the final approach, the pilot had noted variable wind conditions, including up and downdrafts along with a crosswind. Although the pilot described the landing itself as normal, the aircraft encountered a gust of wind during the rollout phase.
As the pilot attempted to turn onto the taxiway, witnesses reported that the aircraft appeared to be traveling at too high a speed for the maneuver. During this attempt, the brakes locked up. A responding deputy observed a skid mark measuring 118.5 feet extending from the runway to the edge of the taxiway, which continued for an additional 35.7 feet into a dry grass area. The aircraft subsequently struck a cement culvert and came to rest inverted, approximately 40 feet beyond the culvert.
Findings
At the time of the deputy's arrival at the airport, winds were reported from the south at approximately 8 knots, gusting to 16 knots. The investigation noted that the aircraft was unable to maintain directional control following a wind gust and the subsequent locking of the brakes.