The pilot of the Beech Baron reported the landing at Santa Monica Airport (SMO) in California was normal, but as the airplane decelerated and began to exit the runway, the left brake locked up and the tire went flat.
This was followed by a collapse of the left main landing gear and substantial damage to the left wing.
The NTSB determined the probable cause of the accident was the left main wheel locking up during the landing roll, which resulted in the deflation of the tire, the left main landing gear collapse, and the subsequent loss of control during the runway exit.
NTSB Identification: WPR13LA189
This April 2013 accident report is provided by the National Transportation Safety Board. Published as an educational tool, it is intended to help pilots learn from the misfortunes of others.
The FAA inspector Report is very interesting, as it contrasts sharply with the pilot’s statement. The pilot said he was at exactly 60 kts and didn’t touch the brakes at all during the rollout. Several witnesses (mechanics, pilots how had a good view of the runway at KSMO) observed the approach and landing. They all said the aircraft was “fast”, and that immediately upon touchdown “white smoke” was evident from the left main. The Inspector indicated that all symptoms pointed to a locked brake in combination with a high speed turn onto the taxiway as the two factors that cinched the accident. Poor pilot technique was clearly the underlying, but unstated root cause.