Bradley Field, Windsor Locks, Connecticut – May 25, 1942
At 4:30 p.m., on May 25, 1942, 2nd Lt. Thomas J. Beasley had just taken off from Bradley Field in a P-40E, (Ser. No. 40-392), when he discovered a problem with the aircraft’s oil pressure system and attempted to return to base for an emergency landing. After receiving instructions from Bradley tower, he was attempting to land when he suddenly saw another aircraft making for the same runway. At that time he made a skidding turn to the left in attempt to get into the wind, but his left wing dropped in a stall. Lt. Beasley was able to regain control of the plane, but due to his now diminished air speed the aircraft dropped flat onto the runway from an altitude of 30 feet and proceeded to skid for 75 yards before coming to rest and catching fire. Although the aircraft was a total loss, Lt Beasley escaped with minor injuries.
The aircraft was assigned to the 66th Fighter Squadron, 57th Fighter Group.
Source: U. S. Army Air Corps Technical Report Of Aircraft Accident #42-5-25-9