The elevator that pinned and killed an Ohio State University freshman failed brake tests conducted after the accident at the maximum weight it was supposed to be able to hold, according to a state report released yesterday.

State inspectors found the elevator could not hold its 2,500-pound weight limit, and its brake allowed the car to drift to the bottom of the shaft.

Andrew Polakowski, 18, of Erie, Pa., suffocated Oct. 20 trying to leave the Stradley Hall elevator that was stuck between floors. He was pinned between the top of the elevator doors and the third floor.

Fire officials said the elevator was crowded with 24 people, exceeding its weight capacity by as much as 1,100 pounds.