Need Help! Spitfire loss Aug-Sep 1944
 

I know this is a long shot, but I am trying to identify a Spitfire crash-site (100% sure it is a Spit, the tail wheel still exists). An eyewitness thinks it was during the second September week in 1944. His village was evacuated on 14 September and he remembers collecting potatos a few days prior when he saw a large bomber formation flying over. He stated that there was an aerial battle and then the Spitfire came crashing down. The pilot bailed out and the eyewitness even touched the chute, which was draped over some bushes.
He also stated that shortly thereafter the bomb explosions could be heard.
The crash location is in the vicinity of Gangelt, Germany and a possible target of the bombers could have either been Moenchengladbach, or the German airfield of Venlo. Both locations are close enough to hear bombs explode.
I looked through the 2nd TAF books and none of the losses can be matched to this event. I wonder if it was a Brit or US Recce Spit and if the bombers were American. I am not adverse to believe that the Spit was shot down by US escort fighters, though there is no evidence beside a hunch.
I think the event was not before the mid of August and no later then the 14th of September 1944. Can anyone help???
Thanks, Danny

Re: Need Help! Spitfire loss Aug-Sep 1944
 

I forgot, I checked the US losses and the two recce Spits they lost are a no-go. So it must be a British Spitfire. Danny

Re: Need Help! Spitfire loss Aug-Sep 1944
 

Hi, Danny
From your account from the eye witness, it would seem the pilot escaped capture, although from my recollection of the area pretty close to where the line stagnated till 1945.
It's therefore possible that someone can provide the details of the escape/evasion of the pilot, as well as identifying the Spitfire loss.
Good luck with your search!

Re: Need Help! Spitfire loss Aug-Sep 1944
 

Thanks Icare9. This has been baffling me for a while. I think I will drag my detector out and access the area myself. If it would not be for the tyre I would say they had the type wrong. Last time someone told us about a Spitfire crash-site, we found the famous P-51B Pistol Packing Mama instead. Time will tell I guess. Danny