What happened
During a series of aerial resupply operations, multiple C-130 Hercules transport planes were deployed to deliver cargo to an airstrip located at A Loui. The mission involved flying under low cloud cover and releasing supplies via the aircraft's rear ramp.
During these maneuvers, several planes in the formation were targeted by enemy ground forces. The 21st aircraft in the sequence was struck by both .50 caliber and 37 mm anti-aircraft fire. This impact triggered a fire within the cargo compartment. In an effort to manage the emergency, the crew attempted to jettison the burning cargo while the pilot performed an emergency descent toward the airstrip.
During the forced landing attempt, the aircraft collided with trees, resulting in a crash and subsequent intense flames. The accident resulted in eight fatalities, with no survivors reported among the crew.