NTSB Factual Report

On May 19, 2003, about 1330 Pacific daylight time, a Cessna 172N, N5326J, sustained substantial damage subsequent to a runway overrun and collision with trees at a private airstrip (78WA) at Center Island, Washington. The airplane is owned by a private party, and was being operated by the pilot as a visual flight rules (VFR) personal/pleasure flight under the provisions of Title 14, CFR Part 91, when the accident occurred. The private pilot, the sole occupant of the airplane, was not injured. Visual meteorological conditions prevailed and no flight plan had been filed for the local flight. The flight originated from San Juan Island (FHR) approximately 10 minutes prior to the accident.

In a written statement the pilot reported that while on final approach to runway 17 he observed deer midfield on the runway and initiated a go around. On his second approach the pilot stated that "My focus of attention was on the deer to make sure they weren't moving to the runway center. The deer stayed clear but the distraction had put me too far down field to allow a safe go around. I was commited (sp) to the landing." The pilot further reported that the brakes were immediately applied on touch down but "grass skid" was a problem. The aircraft went past the end of the runway impacting two small trees resulting in substantial damage to the aircraft.

NTSB Probable Cause

The pilot did not attain the proper touchdown point during landing. The pilot's diverted attention, deer near the runway, and trees were factors.