What happened
The incident occurred when the aircraft came under attack from an enemy combatant. A German fighter engaged the target, leading to the destruction of the airframe. The wreckage was located approximately 15 km west of Tinguta, indicating the point of impact relative to the nearby settlement.
During the engagement, the crew and passengers sustained significant trauma. The pilot survived the crash but suffered serious injuries requiring medical attention. Tragically, the passenger identified as Colonel Tshernov did not survive the incident and was killed in the event.
Findings
Official investigations concluded that the primary cause of the accident was hostile action. The aircraft was confirmed to have been shot down by a German fighter, establishing that external military engagement was the direct factor leading to the loss of the airframe and the resulting casualties.