6 fatalities

1969-06-23: Lockheed C-130 Hercules (61-0965) — United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) — Katum, Vietnam

Katum, VietnamLanding (descent or approach)

On June 23, 1969, a Lockheed C-130 Hercules (registration 61-0965) operated by United States Air Force - USAF (since 1947) was involved in an aviation accident near Katum, Vietnam during landing or approach. 6 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Shot down by enemy fire. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Primary reportUpdated 1781237454Data APIEditorial standards

An aircraft on final approach to Katum Special Forces Camp at 3,000 feet was struck by quad .50 cal radar-directed anti-aircraft fire, causing a fire and engine failure. The aircraft crashed short of the runway, killing all six crew members.

Incident Overview

On final approach to Katum Special Forces Camp, at an altitude of 3,000 feet, an aircraft was struck in the port wing by a quad .50 calibre radar-directed anti-aircraft gun. The impact caused a fire and an engine failure. The aircraft then went out of control, dove into the ground, and crashed a few kilometers short of the runway.

Crew

All six crew members were killed. The crew consisted of:

  • Cpt Gary Edward Brunner
  • Maj William Howard Condit
  • 1st Lt Terry Michael Reed
  • Lt Col Jean Arthur Kearby
  • S/Sgt Billy Wallace McDonald
  • S/Sgt George Charles Peters

Official Finding

The probable cause of the accident was determined to be: Shot down by enemy fire.