Landing and Taxi Incident
The pilot performed three touch-and-go landings on a frozen lake before setting up for a full-stop landing on the plowed surface. After a smooth landing, while taxiing to park, the left wheel strut collapsed. The airplane tipped over onto its left side, resulting in substantial damage to the left wing spar.
Post-Accident Examination
Examination of the airplane after the accident revealed evidence of fatigue cracking on the failed portion of the left wheel strut mount. The aircraft had been flown approximately 50 to 75 hours after its last annual inspection, with no problems noted by the owner during that period.
Pilot Statement
The pilot stated that he frequently lands on frozen lakes and that the collapse of the landing gear was unexpected.