C340 Pilot reported that on landing roll three deer entered the runway; which were struck by the aircraft.

Date: 2011-08 · Aircraft: Cessna 340/340A · Phase: landing

Anomalies: ground-event-encounter-person-animal-bird|ground-excursion-runway

Synopsis

C340 Pilot reported that on landing roll three deer entered the runway; which were struck by the aircraft.

Narrative

During roll out at idle power and full flaps; around 70 knots; 3 deer entered the runway from the brown grass located on the left side of the runway. The deer were moving at a brisk pace; moving directly to the center of the aircraft. Within seconds after seeing them from the left side a vibration was felt and the nose gear collapsed. Once the gear collapsed directional control was lost; the aircraft departed the runway centerline and skidded into the grass on the right side of the runway. Once stopped emergency procedures were conducted and the aircraft was evacuated. Once passengers were off and away from the aircraft; company notification policies were followed. Personnel reported to the scene and runway was confirmed closed. Then fire department arrived due to minor fuel leak. The runway was inspected and the remains of the deer were located. The right leading edge was covered in blood along with the right spinner; right landing gear and the underneath portion of the right wing. The aircraft that arrived prior did not mention deer on the runway. A few hours later the aircraft was removed and the runway was opened.

Source: NASA Aviation Safety Reporting System (public domain). Reports are voluntary submissions and are not verified by NASA.