Event Details
The pilot reported that during landing with a crosswind, a wind gust pushed the airplane left before touchdown. After touching down, the pilot attempted to correct, but the airplane departed the runway to the left. The left wing then struck the ground, causing the empennage to separate.
Aircraft Damage
The airplane sustained substantial damage to the fuselage. The pilot stated that there were no preaccident mechanical failures or malfunctions that would have precluded normal operation.
Weather Information
An automated weather observation station located 15 miles southwest reported that about 16 minutes before the accident, the wind was from 090° at 18 knots, gusting to 22 knots. The pilot reported that the wind was variable from 080° to 110° at 12 to 18 knots, gusting to 12 or 18 knots. The pilot landed the airplane on runway 06.