What happened
While performing an en route mission, the aircraft experienced a fire that appeared to originate within one of its wings. In response to the emergency, the crew attempted to divert the plane back to its home base. During this period, the flight crew lost control of the aircraft.
Two members of the crew managed to exit the plane via bailout and were subsequently found safe. However, the remaining five occupants perished when the aircraft impacted the ground near Highway 99, located approximately 9 miles southeast of Madera. The total number of fatalities was five, while two individuals survived the incident.
Findings
- An apparent fire developed in the wing area during flight.
- Loss of control occurred following the onset of the fire, preventing a successful return to base.