What happened
During a departure from Balikpapan, a heavy bomber operating under the command of the 21st Squadron came under attack. The aircraft was struck by Japanese antiaircraft fire originating from a Navy ship. Following the impact, the plane lost control and plunged directly into the sea.
Of the personnel on board, seven crew members successfully ejected from the burning or damaged airframe and survived the incident. Tragically, four others were killed in the crash. The official roster for the 21st Squadron listed in the records includes Group Captain McLean as the surviving pilot, while Flight Lieutenant Roy, Warrant Officer Bardwell, Sergeant Martin, and Flying Sergeant A. J. Stuart are marked with daggers indicating they did not survive.
Findings
The investigation concluded that the immediate cause of the accident was external hostile action. The aircraft was shot down by Japanese antiaircraft fire, which rendered it uncontrollable and led to its loss in the water.