Incident
A routine training mission originating from RAF Upper Heyford ended in tragedy when the pilot lost control of the aircraft. The airplane dove into the ground and crashed in a field located two miles west of Great Dunmow. Upon impact, the aircraft disintegrated.
Aftermath
All 11 crew members on board were killed. The aircraft was carrying a load of ammunition that exploded for several hours after the crash. The continuing explosions hampered the mission of rescue personnel who were attempting to reach the site.
Investigation
Official findings indicate that the loss of control was believed to have been caused by a gale. Additionally, the possibility that the pilot-in-command lost his orientation was not ruled out.