# NTSB Accident WPR20CA066
> **Piper PA 23** · 2020-01-08 · Helena, MT, USA · NONE
## Event
- **NTSB number:** WPR20CA066
- **Event ID:** 20200109X52615
- **Type:** Accident
- **Date:** 2020-01-08
- **Location:** Helena, MT, USA
- **Coordinates:** 46.606945, -111.983055
## Injuries
- **Highest injury:** NONE
- **Fatal:** 0
- **Serious:** 0
- **Minor:** 0
- **Uninjured:** 1
- **Total aboard:** 1
## Aircraft
- **Make:** Piper
- **Model:** PA 23
- **Registration:** N1428P
- **FAR Part:** 091
- **Engines:** 2
- **Damage:** SUBS
## Conditions
- **Light:** DAYL
- **Weather:** VMC
## Probable cause

The pilot's improper decision to attempt an off-airport departure from rough terrain without inspecting the takeoff area, which resulted in a collision with a shallow rut during takeoff and the nose landing gear collapsing.

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*Source: [NTSB CAROL](https://data.ntsb.gov/carol-main-public/basic-search?source=ntsb&type=event&ntsb_number=WPR20CA066) · AI Analytics · CC0 1.0*