What happened
During a nighttime climb shortly after departing from Walker AFB, a mechanical failure occurred on the aircraft's number two engine. A propeller blade became detached from the engine, which then struck the fuselage and punctured a fuel tank.
The resulting damage triggered an immediate fire and explosion while the plane was still in its initial ascent. The aircraft subsequently crashed into a desert region situated approximately 8 miles south of the airbase. There were no survivors among the 11 crew members on board.
Findings
Investigation into the accident determined that the primary factor was the detachment of a propeller blade during the climb phase, which led to the structural breach and subsequent loss of control.