Primary finding
Probable cause
The on-ground collision with a deer during the takeoff roll. A contributing factor in the accident was the failure to completely secure the airport perimeter.
Investigator assessment
Analysis narrative
During the takeoff roll from an airport that did not have the perimeter completely fenced, the airplane collided with a deer that ran across the runway. The pilot successfully aborted the takeoff and taxied to his hangar.
Source record
Factual narrative
The pilot stated that during the takeoff roll while accelerating through 50 knots, the airplane collided with one of a group of four deer that ran across the runway from the left to the right. He aborted the takeoff without experiencing a loss of directional control and taxied the airplane to the hangar. He further stated that the airport is fenced around the perimeter with the exception of the main driveway, which provides access to the facility.