What happened
The aircraft was operating on an anti-submarine mission in waters adjacent to the coast of Trinidad Island. During this operation, the plane crashed into the sea under circumstances that remain officially unconfirmed. While the specific mechanical or operational failure is not documented, historical assessments suggest the loss most likely occurred during or immediately following an engagement with an enemy submarine.
Search and rescue operations were launched to locate the aircraft and its personnel. Despite these efforts, no trace of the wreckage was found in the water. Consequently, all 12 crew members, who were based at Waller Field in Trinidad, were declared lost. The absence of physical evidence has prevented a definitive reconstruction of the final moments of the flight.