NCJ Number
139799
Journal
Canadian Society of Forensic Science Journal Volume: 25 Issue: 3 Dated: (September 1992) Pages: 171-175
Date Published
1992
Length
5 pages
Annotation
The sabotage-destruction of a Canadian Pacific Airlines DC-3 over Cap Tourmente, Quebec, in 1949 is similar to that of the Pan American B-747 over Lockerbie, Scotland, in 1988.
Abstract
The motive for the 1949 sabotage was an extramarital affair, while the cause of the 1988 crash involved political considerations. In each case, however, a relatively small but effective improvised explosive device concealed in cargo or baggage was loaded without being detected into a forward under-floor cargo hold. Each device was detonated at altitude and resulted in a crash that killed all on board. Wreckage recovered from both aircraft was amenable to careful investigation that proved sabotage by explosive device. Preliminary investigation of the 1949 crash revealed marks in the left forward baggage compartment, suggesting that this area had been the center of an explosion that destroyed the aircraft's command system. Detailed physical, microscopic, and chemical examinations of metallic parts and bits of baggage indicated deposits of lead azide found in blasting caps and crystals of sodium nitrate found in nitrate explosives. The value of forensic science in the investigation of explosive aircraft sabotage is discussed. 6 references