What happened
While returning to Sewart AFB in Smyrna following a completed mission at Shaw AFB, South Carolina, the crew was performing an approach from the north. During this phase of flight, the aircraft type became uncontrollable and descended rapidly into the ground. The impact occurred at a residential structure located in Donelson, approximately one mile north of Nashville International Airport.
The collision resulted in a significant fire that destroyed both the aircraft and the home. There were three fatalities among the crew members. Additionally, one occupant of the house sustained injuries during the event.
Findings
At the time of the accident, the flight was operating under marginal weather conditions. Environmental factors included a cloud base altitude of 1,100 feet and the presence of icing conditions.