Deadly 1957 Plane Crash into Pacoima, California Schoolyard

Jeff takes this episode of History Hunters to the site of the 1957 Pacoima School yard airplane crash of Jan. 31, 1957, the one referred to in the movie La Bamba.
Four personnel aboard the DC-7B that hit the playground and an adjacent church perished. One of them, Archie Twitchell, was a former actor who appeared in a number of western movies. Three students lost their lives that day while about 75 others were injured.
Ritchie Valens was enrolled at the school but absent that day. He would later die in his own accident about two years later in Iowa.
If you would like to financially support our channel (for gas and other expenses), we grateful accept donations via PayPal at [e-mail] and Venmo at History-Hunters. Thank you so much!
#airplanecrash #ritchievalens #pacoima

[@greggwatkinsjr.4308]

I remember first hearing about this by watching La Bamba, that was so sad. When I saw the title, I immediately thought of Ritchie Valens, he went to his Grandpa's funeral when this happen and was afraid to go on plane. Thankyou as always Jeff, it's good to see the school is still around even long after the terrible event.🙂

[@KlassyKat45]

First thing I thought of as well -- the diner scene where he was telling Donna about it. Horrible thing to have happened. I wonder where that boy is now who survived the 3rd-degree burns and other injuries. Sad that the other boy died as well as those on the plane and the airforce pilot. the plane and the airforce pilot.

[@jewelzcluez]

My mom was in the auditorium when the planes crashed and remembers this day very well. It's not well known, so I'm glad that you made this video. Thank you!

[@joelhurley2678]

A very sad story. I could easily understand why Ritchie Valens was so scared of flying. Very nicely done Jeff, and thanks for sharing.

[@jbenziggy]

Every time I step on an airplane I get very nervous about it.

[@joelhurley2678]

@@jbenziggy I have not yet been on a plane. At least are chances are better than 1957.

[@philslaton7302]

@@joelhurley2678 I hold an Airline Transport Pilot Rating and I won't fly. Haven't flown for decades.

[@joelhurley2678]

@@philslaton7302 I don't blame you!

[@Corgis175]

Ironic that Richie Valens went to this school and two years later faced the same fate of a plane crash. Really tragic but well presented. RIP all on the two airplanes and the students that died.

[@ndlz1]

May all those who perished from that crash rest in peace.

[@privatepilot4064]

History isn’t always pleasant, but it’s always important to remember. Thanks Jeff for another fantastic episode!

[@DudleyDoRight]

So in depth your production of content is all ways entertaining and educational ...Dude you ROCK at this!

[@marcieconant5559]

Disturbing connection between this tragedy and the crash in which Ritchie Valens was killed. I'm sure life was never the same again for the families and friends of all those killed, especially the 3 boys. Thank you for sharing this very important video. 😪💕

[@treebuck]

Kids right back at the school the next day. Definitely a different world in 1957. Very touching video, Jeff.

[@arashi6595]

My friend's brother was killed in this accident. He and Ritchie were best friends. There is a website created by students who were there at the time. Most suffered lifelong trauma.

[@tillitrueheart971]

So sad! Hearing the last words of the crew was heartbreaking. Thank you, as always, for such a respectful and informative vlog.

[@caroletomlinson5480]

The survivors and families deserve to be remembered. We’re now thinking of them, thanks to this reminiscence.

[@DovieRuthAuthor]

I think many things can be learned from investigating plane crashes. The one that mystifies me is when a Farrell's Ice Cream Parlor was hit in 1972. It was located at the end of a runway at Sacramento Executive Airport.

[@chadbest9612]

I heard about that. I thought that was related to a plane on a runaway that crashed through a fence.

[@joemcelroy2118]

A great way to start a Sunday morning with a new video from Jeff and Sarah. Thank you.

[@kamz4576]

Well done.👍🏻 My grandfather, a WWII vet working for Douglas, died that day piloting the DC-7 (Mom was just 9 years old, so I wasn't even a thought, let alone knew him). Legend has it that he was screaming out the window to the school kids below to run as the plane was falling. He also, allegedly, tried his best to control the plane in order crash in an open area to try to limit casualties.

[@JBOHATCH]

Considering this is the best channel I subscribe to…..I am surprised History Hunters doesn’t have more subscribers! Jeff does such a great job of presenting history, esp California history and events. I truly find I learn something new with each video! Great job as always!

[@swansfan6944]

I did first hear about this through my ❤️of Ritchie Valens, so it was good to hear a more in depth view of this terrible tragedy. RIP to each and every victim. ❤️from Jodie, Down Under 🇦🇺

[@MrDPdrum]

We look forward to your Sunday show. My mom grew up in Sylmar , went to school with and knew Ritchie, she was a singer and actor and had many stories about those times. Another show idea would be the earthquake of 1971. Thanks again!

[@kmm129]

A tough one, Thanks for the touching tribute to history.

[@Donnasuemcguire]

Thank you for sharing this pain and suffering from the crash. It must of been very hard for the people.

[@deeztang7497]

This event has been a vivid memory for me my entire life. I grew up just a few miles from where it happened. I was 6 years old and in 1st grade at the time. It was a very big deal that everyone was talking about. I remember seeing a picture in the newspaper of a boy in the hospital who's leg had been severed in the crash. I came across that photo not too long ago and it was just as I remembered. Thank you for your excellent coverage of this event! Great podcast, as always.

[@deano6912]

Great episode Jeff. I particularly liked how this one contained three stories - the crash, the co-pilots movie career and the details about Richie Valens. You do a great service honouring people on your channel whom have lived and died - some tragically. Thank you.

[@m.e.c.1007]

My husband and I were just talking about how one moment you are just living your life, with plans for the next day, then in an instant, you are gone. We had just witnessed a motorcycle accident. The cyclist was killed and not at fault. Life is fleeting. These events should get us to focus on the moments we have. Live well, be kind, never leave or go to bed angry is my motto. Great coverage of such a tragedy.

[@autobug2]

A very wise philosophy you live by ma'am! God Bless

[@m.e.c.1007]

@@autobug2 why thank you ☺️

[@brentwilde9843]

Thanks Jeff , another interesting history lesson 😀

[@renar3618]

Good episode. I can't even imagine how traumatic it was for the kids who were injured. No kid goes to school wondering if a plane might crash onto the playground.

[@stevehayes3705]

Very well done, you present unpleasant history pleasantly, this program should be on TV.

[@jbenziggy]

Thanks, Steve! If you know any TV producers send them our way! LOL

[@random22026]

Wonderfully presented, so respectful: thank you for the details you provided, the names and the faces, the accident and its aftermath. An eerie recording exists of that Valedictorian speech--you can hear the drone of the plane as it nears, the sudden loud whine and resounding, explosive impact. It makes for terrifying, sobering listening. 😢😢

[@debsmith1956]

Great job 👏 Jeff and Sarah..I didn't know this story. I was on 1 yr old when this happened. It was nice to see Ritchie Valenz...house. love this thank you very much....

[@briannave7326]

Another well done video. I was a junior in high school in Iowa when it happened, and I remember the crash when Ritchie Valens was killed near Clear Lake Iowa, about 70 miles from my farm home.

[@gerrymaitland9799]

Very fascinating story. I was three years old when that happened. I would later attend Pacoima Junior High for summer school. this was about 1967-68. I remember hearing about the crash. You told the story in much better detail though. Thank you for sharing the story with us. It needed to be told...

[@tomr5021]

My cousin was at the auditorium when that crash happened she’s told me about it many times how she had oily goo all over her She still remembers everything very vividly it haunted her for many years

[@georgesawtooth2214]

You just keep improving with the intro music and flashback photos. The photo of the mom who lost her child is just heart breaking. Excellent job and I love the channel!!! Keep going with the awesome work you do!!!

[@dianeadams353]

Thank you for this Jeff. These boys and pilots were honorably remembered by your video.🥲

[@kdub9918]

The orange tree was a nice touch remember in the beginning of La Bamba Ritchie and his family were on that farm picking oranges..I’m 39 (40 in exactly 2 months) and I *Always* left the room as a child when the radio Broadcast was interrupted and especially when Bob went to the bridge over the old wash and screamed *RITCHIE!!!* Ive never been good at dealing w sadness and I would walk out of the room to avoid crying. I watched it last night.Thanks for posting.vid.

[@greyghostjay]

What a tragedy. I never heard about this but I wasn’t born until 1969. Great bit of history here. Thank You!!

[@waynepowell567]

Thank you for posting. I was at Terra Bella Elementary where the freeway is presently and our home is pictured several times on the eastern border of the gym field.My older brother was on the gym field and was injured. I appreciate you taking the time to look into this. I will never forget this time or day. The clocks stopped at that exact time. Stay safe.

[@daveweber5334]

It would be awesome if your brother could chime in and tell everyone what it was like.

[@waynepowell567]

Dave, Unfortunately he passed away 1 year ago. It was Quite a traumatic day and month with FAA & media raking through our acre of land and scouring the Gym field in narrow rows bout 30 inches wide on their hands & knees picking debris from the grass.

[@daveweber5334]

I’m sorry to hear that Wayne. I just lost my older brother in December.

[@waynepowell567]

Dave, so sorry to hear that. please continue to post your informative videos. They are great. Take good care. Be safe.

[@ednieto05]

Great video! Very thorough and well done as usual. One minor point - The school is Pacoima Jr. High, not elementary school. I grew up less than a mile from the school, but this crash was before my time. Nearly 20 years later, one of my teachers at nearby Beachy Elementary School told us that she saw the plane falling from the sky from the Beachy campus.

[@pnk.chrry.]

My grandpa witnessed the crash when he attended this school. He was in math class and described a sound so loud that the teacher heard it and told everyone to drop. He also said that he saw a ball of flames as soon as it crashed. Crazy stuff.

[@jbenziggy]

Wow, can you imagine the horror? Maybe it happened so fast there was no time for panic.

[@bertthesquirt]

I'm 73 and witnessed this from Candler elementary in sherman oaks. I was out at recess and heard a boom. looked to the north sky an saw the big plane spiral down. i felt the ground shake from 7+ miles away.

[@rhondaz356]

How horrible, particularly when children were involved. Yes, it often takes tragedies like this one, before safety issues are addressed. Thanks so much, Jeff... I had forgotten Ritchie was only 17. 🙏🏼👏🙏🏼

[@marceyvogt2007]

How sad and terrifying. Those poor kids. Thank you.☮️💖🎶

[@fs357mag]

Tastefully and professionally done … and educational to boot! A big thumbs-up as always.

[@tamraleone3012]

History pleasant or not is still history. You are very respectful when talking about unpleasantries. Keep up the good work!

[@jbenziggy]

Glad you enjoyed it, Tamra!

[@kathleenoglesby2114]

Thank you for sharing!

[@818boy]

Richie Valenz's Mothers house was across the street from my grandparents home, my father RIP🙏 told me when he was 10 years old he remembers Richie playing the guitar in the frontyard with children of the neighborhood watching him play, he was one of them!!! He also told me that he met my mother at Pacoima Jr. High when she was 13 and he was 15, great video and research, born and raised valley boy myself, I have heard about this story since childhood, but you put so much info into your presentation, great job!!!👍👏👏👏🙏🌎✌

[@peanut_trucker]

Another great video thanks 👍

[@bradkay9538]

Thanks for your video

[@elainegottwald2878]

Such a sad story. You did very well narrating this story. Thank you for sharing.

[@fountainbiker]

Your research in this sad occurrence was really well done Jeff, thanks again for the history lesson I never learned about in history class.

[@crisslastname9417]

Very well presented!

[@AsSaSsiNscLiCK]

My grandpa was one of the children who had gotten hurt from this plan crash on the school yard, he also had news paper clippings in our house of the crash and would tell me stories about that day and the time he spent in the hospital when recovering, he would also tell me him and Ritchie Valens we’re friends growing up as kids, and he explain to me how he wasn’t there that day.

[@jbenziggy]

Can you imagine how something like that would always be in your mind? Most of us don't think of planes crashing when they fly over but if you were on the playground that day I bet the thought never leaves your mind. Thanks for sharing your personal connection.

[@harveycaldwell2409]

Thank you Jeff and Sarah for this video

[@justinvernal]

Great stuff again 👍🇺🇸

[@regandunn4850]

Great video guys

[@raccabird8889]

Awesome been waiting for this all day

[@161papa]

Great job!

[@phildukeshier7486]

Thanks for your show, always looking forward to see the next one👍

[@claudettedelphis6476]

Thank you Jeff for sharing with us 🇺🇸

[@jeffreyluna7016]

Such a sad situation, thanks for sharing history.

[@bradklaatu]

As with life, not all history is pleasant. This video, well produced as always, shows an important part of history.

[@gmanette188]

Thank you

[@jerrymestas1231]

Always Learning from you and what you do, thank you Jeff.

[@unbiasedobserver]

So sad. But very interesting. Thank you for sharing it with us.

[@Xpyburnt_ndz]

Another fascinating HH episode Jeff! Thnx for all you do!

[@artgarner5708]

Wow. powerful stuff, Well presented Jeff. Thanks

[@maureen8745]

Wow thanks for showing this place & time in history

[@RANDY12764]

Very interesting Jeff

[@aussiegoer]

Another nice vid Jeff…😉…so sad😔

[@SunshineGirlz]

Never knew about this crash. Could be because I wasn't born till the following year. I like how you tried Twitchel the actor & pilot to this plus Ritchie Valens. I really do enjoy your storytelling.

[@jbenziggy]

Awesome! Thanks!!!

[@dotell3359]

Love your presentations of History take care and thank you.

[@HollywoodGraham]

A negative subject but those that perished need to be remembered. Thanks for remembering them.

[@californianomad4333]

Great video man I love how you guys include other history on the people involved keep on keeping on 👍🏽

[@moshe8927]

As always great video Jeff. Cheers!

[@jbenziggy]

Thank you!

[@imanutnur7]

Very well done. You never seem to let me down as you are always prepared and understand your subject.

[@roselyncampisi822]

Thank you for sharing this part of history. I enjoy your channel

[@josephroth382]

Didn’t know about this, thanks for sharing.

[@lornahardin4563]

It is sad, but then again this helps to keep their memory alive. I loved Ritchie Valens, he was just getting started. I was 15 at the time. Thanks Jeff.

[@TOPTENTRAVEL01]

Another great video, although a tragic event, of course. It's amazing that the school and grounds are still the same.

[@doggerproductions]

Yipee.... another great video Thanx Jeff & Sarah....stay safe ☺️👍🇬🇧

[@EnjoyingTheSimpleLife]

The respect you include in all your videos is a clear sign of your values morals and the love you have for others really what takes amazing to another level. Thank you both for all you do!

[@ThisIsPatrickLeeHarms]

Thank you for sharing this video. I haven’t seen many or any videos of this accident.

[@jeffculp2912]

Really enjoyed the Video Thank you for the history. RIP to all that where lost.

[@rparret]

Interesting subject, good video.

[@McAndrewTravels]

Wow! Never heard of this one...very sad. Great job covering it sir!

[@curtiscarinio7508]

Awesome history lesson 😁👍

[@ceeb3192]

Very thorough and interesting to learn about

[@mov1ngforward]

I never knew any of this. I wonder if Richie Valens had been at school that day, if it would have changed his fate. Great job!! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@nadiazahroon6573]

My husband works at Edwards AFB and yes all flights and testing is done over China Lake. Rarely do they fly over any populated areas. If you visits Edwards AFB surrounding fields you can still find a/c pieces. I am not recommending anyone do this. It is a highly secure area and they will arrest you without questions. Nobody today lives in Pacioma. Thanks for the history lesson.

[@dickyhead]

Thanks so much for the History Lesson. Remembering our past is still vital for our future. Thanks J & S

[@martindriver6026]

Had no idea this really happened. I used to live close by and never knew, but then I was 13 when we moved to Lamont, ca near Bakersfield. So far in your journeys you have brought two episodes where I lived close by. The first was about James Dean and the court house he was to appear I live down the street from there. And now this one in Pacoima. From the first time time I saw your vlogs I was hooked.😀

[@alexvarela3509]

Thank you for all the history, love to know about incidents like this in our neighborhood.

[@bartgoins1782]

Another great history lesson. Thank you for the time and effort you put into researching your videos.

[@DeanG55]

Thanks for a very informative video!!

[@jbenziggy]

You’re welcome!

[@nickbakker6963]

Thanks Jeff. An extremely touching story/event and wonderfully, respectfully presented!

[@Stevo_Drums]

I enjoyed this report. Thank you for presenting this is detail.

[@lilialvarado9106]

Very well done, thank you!

[@jbenziggy]

Thank you too!

[@joycemchristiansen6557]

I always learn so much from History Hunters about the state I spent the majority of my life in. Another event I barely remember anything about.

[@WalkwithHistory]

Great episode, very well researched!!!!

[@jbenziggy]

Thank you, Jen!

[@charlesroller5844]

For such a very sad story, you covered it with great respect. Thank you for yet another great history lesson.

[@johnrambo7630]

Another solid episode. I don't know how you are able to release a high quality video such as this each week. History creates the fabric of our country. It's good to know of these events. I'll be first in line for the History Hunters t shirt.

[@melindagordonbeck8958]

This was amazing Jeff. Thanks so much for such great content! You once again did a fantastic job as usual! From your biggest Tennessee fans!