1966-02-01: Lockheed C-130 Hercules — United States Marine Corps (USMC) — Đồng Hới, Vietnam

12 fatalities • Đồng Hới, Vietnam • Flight

Probable cause

The exact cause of the accident could not be determined with certainty. It is possible the aircraft may have been shot down by enemy fire but this was not proven. A possible technical failure may occur in flight, causing the aircraft to explode.

— NTSB Determination

Accident narrative

While returning from a supply mission, the aircraft exploded in midair and crashed into the sea some 24 km off Đồng Hới. All six crew members were killed. Crew: 1st Lt. Albert Michael Prevost, Maj Richard Andrew Alm, G/Sgt Galen Francis Humphrey, Sgt Peter George Vlahakos, S/Sgt Donald Leroy Coates, S/Sgt Russell Burr Luker.

Probable cause (official findings): The exact cause of the accident could not be determined with certainty. It is possible the aircraft may have been shot down by enemy fire but this was not proven. A possible technical failure may occur in flight, causing the aircraft to explode.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1966-02-01 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident near Đồng Hới, Vietnam?

While returning from a supply mission, the aircraft exploded in midair and crashed into the sea some 24 km off Đồng Hới. All six crew members were killed. Crew: 1st Lt. Albert Michael Prevost, Maj Richard Andrew Alm, G/Sgt Galen Francis Humphrey, Sgt Peter George Vlahakos, S/Sgt Donald Leroy Coates, S/Sgt Russell…

Were there any fatalities in the 1966-02-01 Lockheed C-130 Hercules accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 12 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1966-02-01 involved a Lockheed C-130 Hercules, registration 149809, operated by United States Marine Corps (USMC), at Đồng Hới, Vietnam.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

The exact cause of the accident could not be determined with certainty. It is possible the aircraft may have been shot down by enemy fire but this was not proven. A possible technical failure may occur in flight, causing the aircraft to explode.

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