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Today in History: Carole Lombard dies in tragic TWA Flight 3 crash

1/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On January 16, 1942, TWA Flight 3 crashed into Potosi Mountain, Nevada, shortly after departing Las Vegas for Burbank. The twin-engine Douglas DC-3 was carrying 22 people, including actress Carole Lombard and her mother. All aboard perished due to a navigation error by the captain, marking a tragic event in aviation history.

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Story summary

On January 16, 1942, TWA Flight 3 crashed into Potosi Mountain, Nevada, shortly after departing Las Vegas for Burbank. The twin-engine Douglas DC-3 was carrying 22 people, including actress Carole Lombard and her mother. All aboard perished due to a navigation error by the captain, marking a tragic event in aviation history.