What happened
The aircraft departed from RAF Docking on a routine maritime patrol mission operating off the Frisian Islands. As the plane approached the Dutch coastline, it came under attack from a German interceptor. The engagement resulted in the loss of the aircraft, which crashed into the North Sea approximately 25 kilometers north of Terschelling. All four individuals on board were killed in the incident.
Findings
Official investigations confirmed that the accident was caused by hostile action. The aircraft was shot down by a German fighter during its approach to the coast. No mechanical failures or pilot errors were cited as contributing factors; the destruction of the airframe was solely attributed to enemy fire.