B-25 Mitchell shot down near Langgur Airport (N5-214)

What happened

During an approach phase toward Langgur Airport, a B-25 Mitchell came under attack from enemy forces. The aircraft was engaged and subsequently destroyed by fire from a Japanese fighter pilot. Following the impact, the plane crashed into the terrain. The incident resulted in fatal casualties among the flight crew, with at least one member of the 18th Squadron confirmed killed.

Findings

Official investigations concluded that the loss of the aircraft was directly attributable to hostile action. The primary cause identified was the interception and destruction of the bomber by a Japanese fighter during its final approach.