Pieces Strike Homes, One Car

No one was injured when a DC-10's engine began shedding parts as the Arrow Cargo freighter flew over Manaus, Brazil early Thursday. At least 12 homes suffered roof damage, however, and one car was also hit by the falling debris.

The Associated Press reports one large item of debris -- nearly 6-feet long, and weighing about 550 pounds -- came to rest outside a number of homes in the northern Brazil community. Residents described hearing a loud 'explosion' overhead, and said the chunks of metal were on fire as they came down.

"You're sound asleep when suddenly you hear a noise and open your window to see something like that on fire on your doorstep," local resident Aparecida Silva told Brazil's Globo TV. "I didn't know what it was. Fortunately, it didn't hit anyone."

The four persons onboard the plane were also not injured. Globo said the debris looked to be from the combustion chamber and engine outlet. Parts of the engine nacelle were also reportedly recovered.

Rai Marinho, station manager for the Miami, FL-based company's operations in Manaus, said the company will reimburse local residents for any damage incurred from the debris.

Somewhat oddly, the plane's flight crew opted to proceed to their destination of Bogata, Colombia... but weather rerouted the flight to Medellin, where it landed without any further problems.

FMI: www.arrowcargo.com