What happened
While operating en route to Broome, the aircraft came under attack from a Japanese Mitsubishi Zero fighter. The impact or subsequent damage forced the crew to initiate an emergency procedure. In an effort to save the airframe and occupants, the pilot reduced altitude to attempt a landing in a field situated near Carnot Peak, which lies west of Beagle Bay.
The emergency landing was unsuccessful in saving all lives on board. Four people were killed during the incident, comprising three passengers and one crew member. The remaining eight occupants were successfully rescued from the crash site.