Consolidated B-24 Liberator accident at Lakeside, United States of America, 29 Dec 1943 (42-7408)
On December 29, 1943, a Consolidated B-24 Liberator (registration 42-7408) operated by United States Army Air Forces - USAAF (1941-1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Lakeside, United States of America in flight. 13 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: According to officials, the pilot of the aircraft registered 42-7183 bears full responsibility for this tragedy because he did not comply with basic rules of discipline during a training flight. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 2 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.
Probable cause
According to officials, the pilot of the aircraft registered 42-7183 bears full responsibility for this tragedy because he did not comply with basic rules of discipline during a training flight. However, investigators point out that the massive presence of ice in the region remains a contributing factor to the accident in the sense that aircraft performances were reduced.
— NTSB Determination
Accident narrative
A formation of five Consolidated B-24E Liberator was on its way from Wendover AFB to Pocatello, Idaho. While cruising at an altitude of 11,100 feet, the Liberator registered 42-7183 that was in the third position was left behind so its captain increased power to regain its position in the formation. Doing so, the tail of the 42-7183 hit the left wing of the 42-7408. On impact, the number one engine of 42-7408 was sheared off and both aircraft went out of control, dove into the ground and crashed in a huge explosion. All 25 occupants on both aircraft were killed. Crew: 2nd Lt Richard Ralph Abmyer, Sgt Edward W. Arnold, 1st Lt Milton O. Bell, Sgt Anton P. Brajkovich, 1st Lt Austin W. Clark, Sgt Ralph E. Dahlkamp, S/Sgt Joseph L. Guth, Cpl Francis E. Hanson, S/Sgt Hans R. Priester, Sgt Stanley F. Roberson, Cpl Hugh W. Robinson Jr., 2nd Lt John D. Rogers, 2nd Lt James B. Sharp.
Probable cause (official findings): According to officials, the pilot of the aircraft registered 42-7183 bears full responsibility for this tragedy because he did not comply with basic rules of discipline during a training flight. However, investigators point out that the massive presence of ice in the region remains a contributing factor to the accident in the sense that aircraft performances were reduced.