What happened
During a military operation conducted along the Ho Chi Minh Trail in Laos, an aircraft flying at an altitude of 7,500 feet sustained damage from ground-based fire. Following the impact, the right wing of the aircraft ignited. In response to the developing fire, the captain decided to attempt a return to the home base.
As the situation progressed, all 15 occupants performed an emergency bailout to abandon the aircraft. After the crew and passengers exited, the aircraft entered a dive and crashed into the ground.
Findings
Investigations concluded that the primary reason for the loss of the aircraft was that it was shot down by ground fire.