When the number of cancer cases in the vicinity of the accident rose disproportionately in the years after, suspicion rose that the jet, contrary to US statements, may have been loaded with ammunition containing
depleted uranium. This was denied by the US military. Despite this, 70 tons of top soil from the accident scene were removed and taken away to a depot (which also happens to be standard procedure for cleanup when a large amount of
jet fuel is spilled on populated ground, such as in a plane crash). Also, film material taken during the top-soil removal showed radiation warning signs. 120 residents and rescue workers reported skin diseases, diagnosed as (toxic)
contact dermatitis. Damages accounted to approximately DM 13 million and were covered 75% by the
U.S. Air Force and 25% by the West German government. == Cause ==