NTSB Factual Report

The pilot reported that during landing the airplane's nose wheel impacted the runway first and the axle broke. The pilot further reported that the airplane continued to slide on the runway bending the nose wheel strut, which resulted in substantial damage to the airplane's firewall.

The pilot reported that there were no pre impact mechanical failures or malfunctions with the airframe or engine that would have precluded normal operation.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot's failure to maintain an appropriate pitch attitude during landing, which resulted in an initial nose wheel contact, followed by a nose gear collapse, and the airplane came to rest in a nose down position.