Sequence of Events
Both airplanes landed in sequence on runway 4R and were proceeding to their respective gates. The American MD-80 landed first. The Continental Boeing 737 was instructed to cross runway 4L and to contact ground control after crossing. The collision occurred at the intersection of taxiways 'R' and 'K'.
Crew Actions
Both flight crews were occupied with cockpit duties and did not see each other prior to the collision. Neither crew received traffic information or a warning from air traffic control before the impact.
Air Traffic Control Factors
The ATC specialists in the tower were distracted by a maintenance airplane taxiing near runway 11. The local and ground controllers stated that they thought the airplanes would not collide, so they did not issue a warning or traffic information.
Environmental Conditions
The accident happened on a clear night, and weather was not a factor.