EMB ERJ 145 ER/LR
Flight Crew Multiengine; Flight Crew Instrument; Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical; Ground Event / Encounter Other / Unknown
Flight Crew Took Evasive Action; Flight Crew Regained Aircraft Control; Flight Crew Overcame Equipment Problem
Aircraft
After landing at ZZZ on Runway 2; we proceeded to taxi to the gate. Captain was taxiing and we were marshaled into the parking spot assigned. Marshall stopped us on the spot we had to stop; and aircraft halted. Parking brake was set; nonetheless; aircraft started to move forward; I believe 20 feet or so. From inside the cockpit it sounded as if the airplane was overriding the brake pads. It looked like the brakes were stopping the airplane; but not completely; we heard a 'grinding' noise and the aircraft bumped. Captain's reaction was to apply toe brakes. Aircraft stopped and we almost hit the ground-power cart unit on the left side of the airplane. After parking the airplane and running check list; I went outside to check on the rampers. I asked ramp personnel if they were ok; and they were; however they were scared. I proceeded to check the wing and I did not see any evidence of damage. Ground-power cart unit was underneath the wing and we missed it by 1/8 of an inch. Captain called the company to report the Parking Brake failure. Parking Brake failed and this may have caused a fatal incident. Fortunately; this time it did not happen. I will probably be more methodical about the situation. This experience has taught me to be extremely careful and always double check. Although I am not a captain yet; someday I will be; and I will make sure to stop the airplane using my toe brakes; then; I will be more cautious when I set the parking brake.
EMB145 First Officer reported parking break failed.