What happened
During its scheduled flight, a B-17 heavy bomber experienced a critical mechanical failure when one of its engines ignited. The fire progressed rapidly, leading to a catastrophic event where the aircraft exploded while still in the air. Following the explosion, the wreckage descended and crashed at the site.
There were no survivors of the accident. All 13 crew members on board perished during the incident.
Findings
Investigations into the destruction of the aircraft determined that the primary factor was an engine fire that occurred while the plane was en route.