What happened
During a navigational training mission originating from Biggs Air Force Base, Texas, an aircraft entered an uncontrolled spin while cruising at 7,000 feet. The aircraft subsequently struck the ground in a vertical orientation near a field located southwest of Lebanon. The force of the impact and the resulting explosion created a significant crater, measuring approximately 18 feet in depth and at least 75 feet in width.
All 16 crew members aboard the aircraft perished in the accident. The group included four officers and several other personnel assigned to the 97th BW unit.
Findings
While investigators could not establish a definitive cause for the crash, evidence suggested that the loss of control took place while the aircraft was flying near the base of a thunderstorm area.