IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION #
VESSEL TYPE DESCRIPTION: #
The F-101 Voodoo was a supersonic jet fighter developed by McDonnell Aircraft. Initially designed as a long-range bomber escort (similar to the F-100 Super Sabre), the F-101B variant was adapted for air defense roles. It served in the U.S. Air Force and the Air National Guard, including with the New York Air National Guard (ANG). This particular aircraft, tail number 58-0298, was part of the 136th Fighter Interceptor Squadron.
HISTORY: #
The F-101 Voodoo series played a crucial role during the Cold War, tasked with defending the U.S. airspace from potential Soviet bomber threats. The F-101B, the two-seat interceptor variant, was equipped with advanced radar and missile systems for its time, including the AIM-4 Falcon and AIR-2 Genie nuclear-tipped rockets.
In 1973, this specific Voodoo (tail number 58-0298) was transferred to the 136th Fighter Interceptor Squadron, part of the New York Air National Guard. The unit was stationed at Hancock Field, Syracuse, NY, and had the primary mission of air defense in the northeastern United States.
FINAL DISPOSITION: #
On July 7, 1973, during a routine flight, the pilot of the F-101B-105-MC Voodoo lost control of the aircraft, which led to it crashing into Lake Ontario, off the coast of Rochester, NY. Tragically, the pilot did not survive the crash. The cause of the loss of control remains undocumented in the available records, but the incident resulted in the aircraft being submerged in the depths of Lake Ontario.
NOTMARs & ADVISORIES: #
There are no current Notices to Mariners (NOTMARs) related to this wreck. The site is not marked as a significant hazard to navigation but is part of the historical wrecks in Lake Ontario.
LOCATED BY & DATE: #
As of now, the precise location and condition of the wreck have not been well-documented or discovered by official wreck-hunting groups.
CURRENT CONDITION & ACCESSIBILITY: #
The wreck of the F-101B likely rests at the bottom of Lake Ontario, but without specific coordinates or detailed exploration efforts, its current condition remains unknown. Given its military nature, the site might be considered a war grave and should be approached with respect.
RESOURCES & LINKS: #
- Forgotten Warbirds Website: Offers historical information on military aircraft, including those lost during peacetime.
- Aviation Safety Net Website: Provides details on aviation accidents and safety records.
