Caratinga: False UFO Crash Alert via Morse Code
A telegraph operator in Caratinga transmitted messages claiming a flying saucer crashed nearby, triggering military investigation and widespread media attention despite no evidence of an incident.
Background
Incident Overview
Anor Ferreira da Silva, a telegraph operator stationed in Caratinga, Minas Gerais, transmitted urgent Morse code messages on November 22, 1954, to his colleague Geraldo Bastos in Belo Horizonte. Silva claimed that a flying saucer had crashed in a nearby quarry and repeatedly warned authorities to defend the city from Martian invaders.
Response and Escalation
Bastos took the messages seriously, and a bystander immediately reported the claims to local newspaper offices. The incident generated such widespread concern that the telephone system in Caratinga became overwhelmed with press inquiries and ceased functioning.
Official Investigation
The Brazilian military responded by investigating the reported crash site and surrounding areas. Their search found no evidence of any unusual activity, crashed spacecraft, or extraterrestrial presence in the city.