NTSB Factual Report

The pilot reported that he experienced a "wind-shift and gust" upon landing. The pilot further reported that the airplane "caught" a tailwind and hit the runway hard. During the impact, the nose wheel tire "blew-out" and the airplane's propeller struck the runway. An examination of the airplane following the accident revealed that the firewall sustained substantial damage.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's improper flare, resulting in a hard landing. Contributing to the accident was the gust of wind as reported by the pilot.