Aztec, New Mexico crashed saucer hoax

Aztec, New Mexico Crashed Saucer Hoax

The Aztec, New Mexico crashed saucer hoax refers to a widely publicized but ultimately debunked claim that a flying saucer crash-landed near Aztec, New Mexico, in 1948. This event is often cited in discussions of UFO phenomena and conspiracy theories.

Background

The story of the Aztec UFO crash was popularized by a book titled Behind the Flying Saucers, published in 1950 by journalist Frank Scully. Scully's book claimed that the U.S. military had recovered a 100-foot diameter flying saucer from a mesa near Aztec, along with the bodies of 16 humanoid aliens. According to Scully, the craft and its occupants were taken to a secret location for study.

Investigation and Debunking

The Aztec UFO crash story was investigated by various researchers and was eventually exposed as a hoax. In 1952, investigative journalist J.P. Cahn published articles in True magazine that revealed the story was a fabrication. Cahn's investigation uncovered that the primary sources for Scully's book were two conmen, Silas Newton and Leo Gebauer, who had fabricated the story to sell "doodlebug" devices, which they claimed could detect oil, gas, and gold deposits.

Impact and Legacy

Despite being debunked, the Aztec UFO crash story has persisted in popular culture and is often mentioned alongside other alleged UFO incidents, such as the Roswell UFO incident. The story has been featured in various books, documentaries, and television programs about UFOs and extraterrestrial life.

Skepticism and Criticism

Skeptics and critics of the Aztec UFO crash story point to the lack of physical evidence and credible eyewitness testimony. The story is often cited as an example of how rumors and hoaxes can gain traction and become part of UFO lore.

Also see

• Roswell UFO incident
• UFO conspiracy theory
• Extraterrestrial life
• Area 51