On Saturday, July 28, 1945, a converted B-25 Mitchell transport, piloted by Lieutenant Colonel William F. Smith Jr., crashed into the Empire State Building in New York City. The crash occurred at 9:49 AM, at the 79th and 80th floors on the north side of the building.
The twin engine aircraft struck the building at a significant speed, causing a large explosion and fire. Debris and burning fuel spread throughout the impacted floors. Fourteen people were killed. The building itself suffered structural damage, but it was not catastrophic. The fire was brought under control relatively quickly, and the Empire State Building was open for business on some floors a few days later.
Visibility was poor that morning, and the incident led to some changes in aviation procedures and a greater awareness of the potential dangers of flying in dense urban areas.
