What happened
The aircraft departed from Kodiak with the objective of conducting an attack on Kiska. During the approach to the target area, the crew faced severe weather conditions and intense Japanese anti-aircraft fire. As the airplane entered a cloud bank, it collided with the slope of the Kiska Volcano. The impact destroyed the airframe, and all seven crew members were killed.
Findings
The official investigation determined that the accident was caused by controlled flight into terrain. The combination of inclement weather, heavy enemy fire, and the aircraft entering a cloud bank contributed to the loss of situational awareness or control necessary to avoid the mountainous terrain.