U.S. Caravan N1116G was used by California Microwave Systems on classified counter-drug intelligence missions on behalf of the U.S. military. It is understood that the airplane left Bogot  (BOG) at 07:24 on a flight to Florencia (FLA) where it was to refuel prior to a mission. Nearing Florencia, at an altitude of 5000 feet, the airplane’s single engine suddenly quit. A forced landing was carried out on a bare, grassy hillside. All occupants survived the crash-landing and were found by FARC rebels who then shot and killed two of the crew members. The remaining three were taking hostage. The three hostages were released in July 2008. An investigation by the US Southern Command showed that there was thermal damage to the turbine (engine) blades, causing an engine failure.