The Socorro Saucer Landing

On April 24, 1964, Socorro police officer Lonnie Zamora witnessed the landing of an egg-shaped craft and observed two small figures near it. When he approached, the craft took off. The case left physical traces and is considered one of the most credible close encounters.

The Encounter

Officer Zamora was pursuing a speeding car when he heard a roar and saw a flame in the sky. He drove toward the disturbance, thinking a dynamite shack might have exploded. Instead, he found something else entirely.

The Craft

In a gully, Zamora observed a white, egg-shaped object resting on legs. It was approximately 15 feet long. Near it stood two small figures in white coveralls. When they noticed him, they moved quickly toward the craft.

The Departure

The object’s roar resumed as flame emerged from underneath. The legs retracted. The craft rose and departed horizontally at increasing speed, leaving Zamora visibly shaken.

The Evidence

Sergeant Sam Chavez arrived to find burning brush and landing gear impressions in the ground. FBI and Air Force investigators documented the physical traces. The evidence was consistent with Zamora’s account.

The Investigation

Project Blue Book labeled the case “Unknown.” J. Allen Hynek was impressed by Zamora’s credibility. No conventional explanation was found. Zamora remained certain of what he had seen until his death.

Assessment

The Socorro incident combines an unimpeachable witness, physical evidence, and thorough investigation. Officer Zamora’s account has never been satisfactorily explained by conventional means.