What happened
During a flight originating from Bolling AFB, the crew experienced significant mechanical difficulties while preparing for arrival at Westover AFB. As the aircraft lost altitude due to these complications, the pilot-in-command attempted to execute an emergency landing.
Tragically, the aircraft struck the Connecticut River in the vicinity of Holyoke, situated approximately 4 miles from the destination airbase. The impact resulted in four fatalities and left four crew members injured but rescued from the wreckage.
Findings
Investigations into the accident concluded that the primary reason for the engine malfunction was carburetor icing.