The Cash-Landrum Incident
Three witnesses suffered severe radiation burns after encountering a diamond-shaped craft escorted by military helicopters. The only UFO case to result in a federal lawsuit.
On December 29, 1980, Betty Cash, Vickie Landrum, and her grandson Colby encountered a diamond-shaped craft emitting intense heat on a Texas road. The encounter left all three with radiation-like injuries and resulted in the only UFO case to reach federal court.
The Encounter
The three witnesses were driving on Farm Road 1485 when they spotted a brilliant light ahead. As they approached, they saw a massive diamond-shaped object hovering above the road, periodically shooting flames downward. The heat was so intense it softened the car’s dashboard.
Betty Cash stepped outside for a better look, receiving the most exposure. According to documented accounts, the craft was surrounded by 23 CH-47 Chinook helicopters.
Physical Effects
Within hours, all three developed symptoms consistent with radiation exposure:
- Severe burns and blisters
- Hair loss
- Nausea and vomiting
- Eye inflammation
- Long-term health complications
Betty Cash was hospitalized multiple times and never fully recovered, suffering health issues until her death in 2004—exactly 24 years after the encounter.
The Lawsuit
The witnesses filed a federal lawsuit against the U.S. government, claiming military responsibility. Despite the military denying any aircraft were in the area, the case remains unexplained. The lawsuit was dismissed in 1986, but the physical evidence—documented injuries, damaged vehicle, and multiple witnesses to the helicopters—made this one of the most compelling UFO cases on record.