The Nation - News from Oct. 25, 1987

The Air Force jet that crashed into an airport hotel in Indianapolis, killing nine workers, was part of a unit that has been linked to the secret stealth bomber program, according to a published report. There is some suspicion that the A-7D Corsair II attack jets attached to the unit have been used to test electronic equipment for the stealth program, a source who was not identified told the Indianapolis Star. However, the Star said there is no indication that the fatal flight had any connection with the classified stealth project, aimed at developing bombers that could foil radar. Maj. Bruce Teagarden of Las Vegas ejected safely just before his jet, which had lost power, crashed into the lobby of the Ramada Inn. Teagarden told witnesses he aimed the plane toward a field near the hotel before he bailed out.