Detailed Investigation of a UFO Sighting North of Baltimore, Maryland, on 26 October 1958

On 26 October 1958, at approximately 2230 EST, two civilians were driving near Loch Raven Dam, north of Baltimore, Maryland, when they encountered a large, flat, egg-shaped object hovering 75 to 150 feet above a bridge. As they approached within 75 to 80 feet, their automobile's electrical system failed, causing the headlights and dash lights to go out and the engine to die. The witnesses exited the vehicle and observed the object for 30 to 45 seconds. They reported that the object emitted a brilliant flash of white, iridescent light, which was accompanied by a sensation of heat on their faces. Subsequently, the object rose vertically, producing a loud noise described as a dull explosion or thunder clap, and disappeared within 5 to 10 seconds. Following the incident, the witnesses reported the event to the Ground Observer Corps, who were dismissive, and then to the Towson Police Department. The witnesses later sought medical attention at St. Joseph's Hospital in Baltimore for burning sensations on their faces. An investigation was conducted by the 1001st Air Base Wing at Andrews Air Force Base, which included interviews with the witnesses and a site visit. The investigator, 2nd Lt. Bert R. Staples, noted that the witnesses were sincere and reliable. Additional reports of a 'glowing light' and a 'double boom' sound were collected from other individuals in the area on the following night, 27 October 1958. Despite extensive investigation, including photographic documentation of the site and analysis of the witnesses' claims, the Air Technical Intelligence Center (ATIC) could not reach a valid conclusion regarding the nature of the object. The report concludes that the object does not constitute a threat to the security of the United States and remains unidentified.