What happened
While cruising on airway 5 at an altitude of 9,000 feet, a Douglas DC-3 collided with a USAAF Lockheed B-34 Ventura II registered 41-38116. The military aircraft was en route from Long Beach to Palm Springs with two pilots on board. Following the impact, the DC-3 lost control and dove into the ground, crashing approximately 5 km north of Palm Springs. This event resulted in the deaths of all 12 occupants aboard the airliner. In contrast, the crew of the Ventura managed to land safely at Palm Springs Airport.
Findings
The official investigation determined that the accident was caused by the reckless and irresponsible conduct of the Ventura's pilot. The evidence indicated that the military pilot deliberately maneuvered the bomber into dangerous proximity with the airliner in an unjustifiable attempt to attract the attention of the airliner's first officer. Testimony confirmed that no recognition maneuvers were observed from the airliner in response to the bomber's actions. The board concluded that the collision resulted solely from the reckless act of the bomber pilot, finding the captain of the airliner to be without fault.