What happened
During a routine maritime patrol mission over the North Sea, a twin-engine military aircraft came under attack. The plane was engaged and subsequently shot down by the pilot of a German Heinkel He 111. Following the loss of control, the aircraft crashed in Pernis, a suburb located near Rotterdam.
The impact of the crash resulted in significant casualties among the flight deck personnel. Three crew members lost their lives in the incident. A fourth occupant survived the initial impact but sustained injuries and was subsequently taken prisoner by enemy forces.
Findings
Official investigations confirmed that the aircraft was destroyed during combat operations. The primary cause of the accident was identified as hostile action, specifically being shot down by a German fighter aircraft while on station.