The DB Cooper hijacking remains one of the most infamous unsolved crimes in American history. This audacious skyjacking, carried out by a mysterious figure known only as “DB Cooper,” has puzzled law enforcement, captivated the public and inspired countless theories for over five decades. In a surprising turn, the FBI has recently reopened the case, sparking renewed interest in unraveling this extraordinary aviation mystery.
Here’s a detailed look at the incident, the manhunt that followed, and the latest developments in this decades-old case.
Table of Contents
Hijacking: A Bold Crime in the Skies
On the afternoon of November 24, 1971—Thanksgiving Eve—a man in his mid-40s, wearing a business suit, black tie, and sunglasses, approached the Northwest Orient Airlines counter at Portland International Airport. He identified himself as “Dan Cooper” and purchased a one-way ticket on Flight 305 to Seattle.
Cooper, 36 other passengers, and six staff members boarded the Boeing 727. Shortly after takeoff, he discreetly handed a note to a flight attendant. Initially dismissing it as another passenger flirtation, the attendant hesitated to read it. Cooper leaned in and whispered: “Miss, you’d better look at that note. I have a bomb.”
The note outlined his demands:
- $200,000 in cash (equal to more than $1.4 million in today’s currency).
- Four parachutes—two primary and two reserve.
- A refueling truck is ready in Seattle to avoid delays.
The flight crew, under Cooper’s instructions, informed air traffic control. The airline complied, ensuring the passengers’ safety while secretly contacting law enforcement. Upon landing in Seattle, Cooper allowed all passengers to disembark after receiving the money and parachutes. Keeping the crew as hostages, he ordered the plane to take off again, directing the pilot to fly toward Mexico City at a low altitude of 10,000 feet and at a reduced speed.
The Daring Escape
Cooper carefully prepared for his escape as the plane sailed over the untamed Pacific Northwest. Around 8:00 p.m., Cooper opened the aircraft’s rear stairs and parachuted into the night somewhere over southern Washington State. No one ever saw him again.
Cooper and the ransom money were nowhere to be found, but the crew managed to land the aircraft in Reno, Nevada, safely. No conclusive evidence of Cooper’s whereabouts was ever discovered, despite intensive search attempts in the thick forests around the alleged jump region.
Clues Left Behind
While Cooper disappeared, he left behind a few tantalizing clues:
- A clip-on tie and tie clip were later analyzed for potential DNA evidence.
- Witness descriptions of his calm demeanor, cigarette-smoking habit, and choice of drink—bourbon and soda.
- The 1980 discovery of $5,800 in decomposing $20 bills by a little child beside the Columbia River resulted in the discovery of ransom money. It was verified that these bills were included in the ransom for the hijacking.
The Manhunt and Theories
The FBI launched an extensive investigation, codenamed NORJAK (Northwest Hijacking), interviewing hundreds of suspects. Over the years, numerous theories emerged:
- Survival vs. Death: Many experts believe Cooper couldn’t have survived the jump due to the freezing temperatures, high winds, and his lack of appropriate equipment. Others argue he may have been an experienced skydiver who planned his escape meticulously.
- Suspects: Over 800 suspects have been considered, ranging from former military personnel to rogue criminals. High-profile suspects include Robert Rackstraw, a Vietnam veteran with skydiving experience, and Richard Floyd McCoy, who executed a similar hijacking months later.
Despite these efforts, Cooper’s identity remains unknown, earning him a place in history as one of America’s greatest mysterymen.
Why the FBI Reopened the Case
The FBI officially closed the DB Cooper case in 2016, citing limited resources and no new evidence. However, recent advances in forensic science, particularly DNA analysis, and new tips from the public have prompted the agency to take another look.
It is believed that re-examining the tie Cooper left behind using advanced genetic genealogy could provide new leads. Additionally, improved satellite imagery and ground mapping technology may help pinpoint potential landing sites.
The reopening of the case has reignited public fascination, with investigators hopeful that modern techniques could finally shed light on this enduring mystery.
Cultural Impact of the DB Cooper Hijacking
The DB Cooper story has transcended the realm of true crime, becoming a cultural phenomenon. From books and documentaries to Hollywood films and TV shows, the mystery has inspired countless adaptations and speculations. Cooper’s audacious act and his elusiveness have made him a folk hero to some, symbolizing rebellion and ingenuity.
What Happens Next?
As the FBI delves back into the DB Cooper hijacking, new clues or breakthroughs could bring long-awaited answers. Whether Cooper survived the jump or met his end in the wilderness, uncovering his true identity would be a historic milestone in American investigative history.
Conclusion
The DB Cooper hijacking remains a case like no other—a daring crime, a mysterious escape, and a trail that has gone cold for over 50 years. With the FBI reopening the investigation, the possibility of closure reignites hope for justice and the truth. This renewed effort may finally answer the question: Who was DB Cooper, and what became of him?