MUFON Ontario Newsletter - 1995 10 - Carp Ontario Case special

Magazine Overview

This document, titled 'The Carp case (The Guardian Caper) - The MUFON Ontario Version', appears to be a report or newsletter from MUFON Ontario detailing an investigation into a UFO incident that occurred in 1989. The issue date is listed as 1989, and it covers events spanning from 1989 to 1993.

The Carp Case: Beginnings (1989)

The report begins by noting the extensive media coverage the 'Carp case' has received, including appearances on shows like 'Unsolved Mysteries' and 'Sightings'. It states that the case has achieved 'One Of The Most Significant Cases In UFO History' status. The document promises to present the facts of the case without being overly judgmental.

In 1989, Tom Theofanous of the Canadian UFO Research Network (CUFORN) received a package from someone identifying themselves as 'Guardian'. This package contained a story about a UFO crash near Carlton Place, Ontario, about a half-hour drive from Ottawa, along with a photocopied picture of an alien. Initially thought to be a joke, CUFORN director Harry Tokarz contacted Arthur Bray, a UFO author in Ottawa, who in turn enlisted Graham Lightfoot, a ufologist, to investigate. Lightfoot, using sketchy coordinates, located a potential 'UFO crash-site' near Manion Corners and found witnesses.

Diane Labanek, one of the witnesses, claimed to have seen an intense, bright light pass overhead towards a swamp on November 4th, 1989. She also reported seeing helicopters with bright lights scanning the area earlier that evening. Another resident recalled cattle escaping from a nearby pasture that weekend. A couple also reported a bright light shining through their bathroom window, and the wife vaguely remembered hearing helicopters.

Graham Lightfoot reported his findings to Arthur Bray, noting the absence of any signs of heavy equipment that would be needed to recover a crashed craft. He concluded that while he found no conclusive evidence, he would continue to investigate. The 'Guardian' material was also sent to other investigators, including Clive Nadin and Christian Page of MUFON Ontario, who visited the area and spoke to witnesses. They agreed that someone might be attempting to perpetrate a hoax.

Guardian Re-surfaces (1991)

In October 1991, CUFORN began receiving more 'Guardian information' via mail from Ottawa. This included documents mentioning a 'conspiracy' between Chinese and 'Gray Aliens', a Polaroid of a UFO, and a black and white picture of an 'Alien'. A subsequent package contained a VHS video tape labeled 'GUARDIAN', along with playing cards and a map of a 'Gray's landing area'. The package also included documents from the 'Canadian Department of National Defense' which were later found to be forgeries. The video, a few minutes long, showed two angles of what 'Guardian' claimed was an 'alien craft' on the ground. The video depicted bright lights, road flares, and the sound of a dog barking, with one frame showing a close-up of wipers on a vehicle.

CUFORN pondered the information and decided to postpone a visit to Carlton until after the spring thaw.

Enter Oeschler

In March 1992, Bob Oeschler, an American MUFON investigator and 'former NASA mission specialist', contacted CUFORN. He had also received a video and documents from 'Guardian'. His version of the video included an additional scene of the 'alien craft' and footage of a windshield, but lacked an audio track. Oeschler believed the tape should be investigated further, and arranged to meet Tom Theofanous in Carlton, Ontario, on May 10th, 1992. Graham Lightfoot agreed to act as a guide.

The First Visit (May 10, 1992)

A group of investigators, including Tom & Lise Theofanous, Victor Lourenco, Vaughn Killin, Drew Williamson, Harry Tokarz, and Wayne St. John, met with Oeschler and his son, along with Graham Lightfoot, in West Carlton, near Ottawa. They compared their copies of the Guardian video in Oeschler's motel room. Tom Theofanous noted Oeschler's 'technical ineptness and more story telling' as a potential stalling tactic.

The group then went to examine the area depicted in Guardian's map, stopping near Manion Corners. Oeschler seemed to stall by filming everything. Later, Oeschler took the lead, driving on side roads, which Tom found odd given Oeschler's supposed unfamiliarity with the area. Oeschler asked the group to check for compass anomalies, claiming to have found one himself, which contradicted the readings of the others.

While waiting for Oeschler, Drew Williamson noticed a stop-sign at an abandoned farmhouse, marked with 'Do Not Enter' and 'DND Killing Fields' signs. They found tracks suggesting four-wheeled vehicles and speculated the area might be used for 'War Games' or as the location for the Guardian video shoot.

Guardian's map described a square mile area of scrub and swampland. The group attempted to navigate this area but found the conditions difficult and eventually returned to the parking lot. Tom Theofanous recounted a conversation with Oeschler in a parking lot where Oeschler asked, "what's wrong with trying to make a buck?" This led Tom to step back from the investigation temporarily.

More on Guardian's Video

The report questions the inclusion of the last three frames of the CUFORN version of the Guardian video, which show windshield wiper blades in an upright position. It is suggested these frames might be a clue to the craft's true nature. Oeschler claimed these were not wipers but a design on the craft, citing Diane Labanek's evidence and his own expertise. However, the report notes that Oeschler's expertise in windshield analysis was non-existent compared to Tom's, who ran a windshield repair company.

Field Investigator Oeschler

Oeschler and Graham visited the field after speaking with Diane Labenek. Oeschler claimed to have found the 'landing site' and pointed to grass that he believed was 'dug up during the landing'. Graham explained this was likely damage caused by skunks. Graham observed that Oeschler seemed to lack knowledge of 'country nature' and was unsure what he was looking for. Oeschler also pointed to vegetation he claimed was 'irradiated', which Graham identified as Juniper bushes typical after a Canadian winter. Oeschler asked for sample containers, which Graham provided. Labenek later told them her husband had missed the 'landing' event. She had not initially reported what she saw until questioned by Graham and Oeschler.

Diane Labenek described seeing what she thought was a fire or flares, followed by a craft landing, lights extinguishing, and then a helicopter hovering. She drew a craft that was silver/grey with a zig-zag design, sitting on three blocks, which matched a drawing in the Guardian packages. However, the video showed the craft as red, not silver/grey.

Helicopters

Following Diane Labenek's assertions about helicopter activity, Drew Williamson contacted the Department of National Defense (DND). He was informed that military exercises involving helicopters occurred in August, requiring landowner permission. Graham Lightfoot also made calls to military establishments and was told that helicopters do not use flares during landings but use Chem-Sticks. Captain Mark Bigoutte stated that while choppers were on exercise on August 19, 1991, they were miles west of Manion Corners.

Oechsler and Graham showed the Guardian video to Colonel Cajo Brando and Major Norm Patterson at Uplands Royal Canadian Airforce base. Colonel Brando did not believe a helicopter was involved and stated that a helicopter shown in a photograph provided by Labenek had been decommissioned two years prior. Brando suggested it might have been an American chopper crossing the border.

Graham and Oechsler collected soil and plant samples from the supposed landing site. Oechsler later claimed to have collected 'over a hundred samples'.

Unsolved Mysteries

Oechsler expressed interest in getting the case on 'Unsolved Mysteries' to 'flush Guardian out'. Tom Theofanous suggested further investigation before national TV exposure. Unbeknownst to Tom and Graham, Oechsler had already arranged for a segment on the Carp Case to be filmed. Graham was reluctant to appear on the show due to Oeschler's perceived 'slant' on the case.

Guardian Revealed

On November 19, 1992, Graham learned that Andy Williams claimed to know who 'Guardian' was. Williams explained that 'Guardian' was Bobby Charlebois, a friend with an ongoing interest in UFOs. Oechsler provided Williams with material regarding the Carp case. Graham later confirmed with Charlebois' sister that he was an avid UFO buff.

Fingerprints

In February 1993, Oechsler and Graham met with reporter Lois Tuffin, who knew Bobby Charlebois. Oechsler asked her to deliver a package of UFO material to Charlebois to obtain his fingerprints, but the package was returned. Oechsler then took the package to the OPP, where no fingerprints were found, leading to the conclusion that Charlebois had outsmarted them. Diane Labenek stated she knew Charlebois and that he always wiped drinking glasses clean.

The report concludes with Oechsler's assumptions based on his analysis of the video, including the distance from the craft, the duration of recording, and the presence of smoke but no flares in one scene. Diane Labenek's observation that the craft departed before the flares went out is noted as making both the video and her story suspect. During a TV interview, Labenek claimed many others had seen the event, but MUFON Ontario could not find other witnesses in the area. Oechsler also claimed to have received many calls from witnesses, which Graham was unaware of.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this document are the investigation of a potential UFO incident, the role of media in sensationalizing such events, and the questioning of the credibility of both witnesses and investigators. There is a strong undercurrent of suspicion regarding the authenticity of the 'Carp case', with the possibility of a hoax being a central point of discussion. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical examination, aiming to present facts while acknowledging the controversies and potential deceptions surrounding the case. The document highlights the challenges of UFO investigation, including the influence of personal agendas, the difficulty in verifying evidence, and the impact of media exposure.

This issue of UFO Library Magazine, dated October/November 1993, delves deeply into the controversial "Guardian" UFO Landing case in the Carp area of Ontario, Canada. The publication, produced by MUFON Ontario, presents a critical examination of the events, investigations, and the individuals involved, particularly focusing on the conflicting narratives and alleged cover-ups.

The Labanek Incident and Early Investigations

The issue begins by recounting events surrounding Graham Lightfoot and Oechsler's interactions with witnesses, including high school girls in Almonte and Diane Labanek. Labanek reported a sighting by her mother of a craft hovering close to their house, and later, her husband claimed to have seen a similar craft. Oechsler's investigation into these events, particularly the 'evidence' found months after an August '91 'landing', is questioned for its timing and focus.

'Low-Flying' Helicopters

Labanek's complaints of harassment by 'low-flying' helicopters are discussed. Investigations by MUFON Ontario suggested that neighbours only reported regular air ambulance and military aircraft, not choppers flying below the regulated five-hundred feet. A white helicopter seen the day after her mother's sighting was identified as a NATO aircraft on a training exercise. The article points out the implausibility of a helicopter flying low enough to affect shingles without being noticed by neighbours. It also notes that Labanek, who claimed ignorance of UFOs, had cupboards full of UFO books in her basement.

Graham's Correspondence to 'Unsolved Mysteries'

Graham Lightfoot's letter to Bob Kiviat, producer of 'Unsolved Mysteries', dated February 28, 1993, is included. Lightfoot relays information about a Feb 17th sighting by Diane Labanek's mother, describing a craft hovering very close to the house and then moving away. He also mentions Oechsler's efforts to obtain Bobby Charlebois' (Guardian) fingerprints, allegedly to charge him with forging DND documents. Lightfoot expresses distrust in Oechsler's methods and chaotic behavior, noting Oechsler's plan for a 24-hour surveillance operation without funding.

Oechsler's Methods and MUFON's Stance

Oechsler's credibility is further questioned, with reports that an 'expert' on the 'Sightings' show did not recognize him, and MUFON distancing itself from him after the 'Gulf Breeze' story. Oechsler is described as persistent but prone to fitting evidence to a preconceived story line, and having an ego that seeks credit. Lightfoot notes that Oechsler used material he provided for the Labanek case, implying Oechsler misrepresented his findings.

The RCMP Involvement

On March 4, '93, Oechsler informed Graham that he had asked the RCMP to pressure Bobby Charlebois. However, the RCMP would only act on a formal complaint. The Labaneks filed a complaint, stating they were being 'harassed' by helicopters flying below 500 feet. The Labaneks also complained about being 'harassed' by the RCMP, who allegedly tried to get them to sign a 'confession' that the craft was a helicopter. Charlebois was also reportedly being 'harassed' and had hired a lawyer. Graham Lightfoot, convinced by the Labaneks' claims, suggested the story to CJOH-TV, resulting in a news report.

RCMP Investigation and Findings

Oechsler was angered by the TV report, but it was revealed that the Labaneks' complaint to the RCMP was lodged on February 10, 1993, with the investigation aiming to ascertain sufficient evidence for prosecution under the Aeronautics Act and to determine if the object was an aircraft or a UFO. Constable De Haitre's investigation included interviews with neighbours and examination of signs on the Labanek property that bore similarities to 'Guardian' documents. Oechsler directed De Haitre towards Canadian Airforce Major Patterson and claimed to have found Titanium at the 'landing site' but no Strontium, suggesting it wasn't military flares. However, in UFO Library Magazine, Oechsler claimed evidence of Lithium Carbonate, used in fireworks, not military flares. The article questions why he waited a year to publish these findings, having previously lectured that flares were military due to strontium residue he claimed not to find.

Oechsler attempted to solidify his relationship with the RCMP by suggesting Charlebois be charged under the 'Fraudulent Cheque Act' for forged documents, but De Haitre concluded no charges could be laid. De Haitre's final RCMP report included findings on Titanium and Strontium residue.

Oechsler's Rebuttal and the 'Guardian' Video

Bob Oechsler's rebuttal to the RCMP report is presented, where he states his investigation was initiated with the conviction that the event was a military operation, with evidence of military pyrotechnic flare residue. However, laboratory results were negative for detectable elements, leading the RCMP to seek an explanation involving helicopters. Oechsler claims the RCMP declined his invitation for a technical meeting and terminated the investigation. He also discusses the analysis of the 'Guardian' videotape, including audio track analysis and the hypothesis that a Sikorsky S-76 helicopter was responsible, which Oechsler disputes.

Helicopter Hypothesis Debunked?

Oechsler refutes the helicopter hypothesis, particularly concerning the strobing blue light and masthead light. He argues that the rotor assembly speed required for the observed oscillation would visibly affect pyrotechnics smoke, which is not seen on the video. He also questions the audio track analysis, suggesting the sound might be video noise. The article notes that Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation could not agree with the RCMP's interpretation.

'Sarah Janille' and Witness Contradictions

An update reveals that 'Sarah Janille' (a pseudonym), the self-styled 'abductee', may have been the complainant about low flying helicopters. Graham Lightfoot, Tom and Lise Theofanous visited 'Sarah Janille', who agreed to send MUFON Ontario a letter explaining her situation, potentially absolving her from the Carp/Guardian controversy. However, at the time of writing, no letter had been received.

The 'Military' Signs

Further investigation into 'military' signs found on the Labanek property is detailed. Pavel Farfara, Diane Labanek's nephew, reportedly spoke to a By-Law inspector about these signs and military involvement, ten months before the alleged August 1991 landing. This raises questions about foreknowledge. The article notes that Farfara owns a white pick-up truck similar in size and shape to the 'craft' in the Guardian video. Neighbours interviewed in March 1994 claimed not to have been aware of the 'military' signs until 1993, contradicting Dr. Labanek's statement that he had seen them in previous years. Graham Lightfoot was given these signs by the Labaneks.

Bob Oechsler's Resignation and MUFON's Comments

Bob Oechsler announces his retirement from UFO research as of September 1st, 1994, citing the 'malicious libel, slander distortion and unchecked fabrication' in the UFO field. He plans to publish his findings on the Guardian UFO Landing investigation. MUFON Ontario responds to Oechsler's resignation, calling it a result of controversy and questioning his motives, suggesting he is seeking sympathy and planning a defense after MUFON publishes its report. They accuse him of unscrupulous actions and vow to expose his reputation.

Oechsler's 'Hot Air' Rebuttal and Maccabee's Support

Oechsler's 'Hot Air' rebuttal is mentioned, where he charges that his support for UFO cases has caused other researchers to waste time and money. The article criticizes Bruce Maccabee for his clear support of the Guardian video's authenticity, despite the case being considered a 'patent hoax' by some. Maccabee's motives are questioned, and it is suggested he may be manipulated by Oechsler or that his judgment is impaired.

Susan Gill's Account and Inconsistencies

Susan Gill, introduced as an 'External Affairs witness', provides an account of seeing peculiar red lights and an object with swirling lights descending. Her story, however, is presented with inconsistencies, including claims of rain on the night of the event, which contradicts the Guardian video. Gill also sent a letter complaining about Graham Lightfoot's indiscretion in revealing her story, which she described as fiction. The article points out that Gill had already shown her story to Oechsler, who then used parts of it in UFO Library Magazine without credit, presenting them as facts.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The issue consistently questions the credibility of witnesses and investigators, particularly Robert Oechsler, highlighting his alleged manipulative tactics, financial dealings (including the use of Bruce Maccabee's cheque for polygraph tests), and questionable claims. MUFON Ontario adopts a critical stance, aiming to expose what they perceive as misinformation and deception within the UFO community, specifically concerning the Guardian case. The editorial emphasizes the importance of uncovering the truth despite threats of libel lawsuits and the alleged efforts to discredit those seeking it. The article concludes by suggesting that the real mystery is not the UFO phenomenon itself, but the sociology of how it affects and polarizes those drawn to it, potentially explaining government secrecy.

This document is the final part of a series from the MUFON Ontario Newsletter, dated October 9, 1995, detailing their investigation into the 'Carp Case'. The newsletter concludes that the entire case was a hoax, orchestrated by individuals including a researcher named Oechsler.

The 'Carp Case' Investigation and Findings

The newsletter outlines the investigation's journey, starting with a complaint lodged with the RCMP regarding 'low flying helicopters' and a purported 'UFO landing'. The RCMP's investigation, led by Constable Dehaitre, involved interviewing residents of Manion Corners near Carp, Ontario. The findings suggested that the individuals involved had a history of 'strange antics' and a fascination with UFOs and government misinformation. Constable Dehaitre reportedly concluded that photographs of 'aliens' were likely masks and that the 'UFO landing' video was inconclusive, possibly a pick-up truck or a helicopter.

The newsletter alleges that Oechsler, described as a self-styled 'Investigative Researcher', manipulated various agencies, including the RCMP, DND, and DOT, to support his narrative of a 'UFO landing' and an intricate 'Government Conspiracy'. Oechsler allegedly used his 'connections' to gain cooperation from these agencies and then published their names as having been helpful, implying a genuine interest in the story.

Key individuals mentioned in relation to the alleged hoax include Susan Gill, Bobby Charlebois, Diane Labanek, and Pavel Farfara. The newsletter asserts that the Labaneks, Charlebois, and Farfara were involved in creating a hoax video. Susan Gill's story was allegedly used to 'pad' the Carp event, even if her own experience occurred at a different time.

Legal and Personal Conflicts

The document touches upon personal conflicts and legal threats. Mr. Lightfoot and his associates are mentioned as making derogatory remarks about Oechsler and the newsletter's authors, which are deemed grounds for a lawsuit. A third party, in a letter to Susan Gill, expressed surprise that her involvement was research for a fiction book rather than a personal experience, and apologized for any misconception.

Diane Labanek was scheduled for a polygraph test but withdrew at the last minute. The newsletter questions the validity of polygraph tests administered to Gill, suggesting she might be a confabulator or that the questions skirted the situation.

Oechsler is described as having threatened lawsuits against those publicizing the 'true story', claiming they were 'taking his livelihood away'. He also allegedly attempted to buy off or label as 'debunkers' those who challenged his narrative. Oechsler eventually resigned from the field, citing a need to 'extricate myself from this eternal abyss and return to the family life that I've sorely neglected'.

Accessing Information and External Contributions

The newsletter details efforts to obtain the RCMP report through an 'Access of Information Act' request. Members of O.C.I.P.E. (Organisation de Compilation et d'Information sur les Phenomenes Etranges) from Quebec, including Christian Page, assisted in this process. A young man named Ian Rogers played a crucial role in sourcing indexing and coding information, which allowed for the retrieval of Constable Dehaitre's original report. Upon reviewing it, Ian realized Oechsler's account did not align with the official documents.

Ian Rogers later shared the RCMP documents with other UFO researchers, including Grant Wakefield and Mike Strainic, who eventually passed them on to the MUFON Ontario investigators. Ian also met with Constable Dehaitre, who reiterated his findings.

Conclusions and Thanks

The newsletter's final conclusions are: 1) The Labaneks, Charlebois, Farfara, and others created a hoax video. 2) Susan Gill's story was used to pad the Carp event. 3) Oechsler intentionally misled the public and media using unethical means for personal and financial benefit. 4) The Guardian video of the 'UFO landing' is inconclusive and likely a pick-up truck or helicopter.

The newsletter expresses thanks to numerous individuals and groups who contributed to resolving the case, including Graham Lightfoot, the 'Our' group (Victor Lourenco, Drew Williamson, Sue Kovios, Chuck Courville, Wayne St. John, Vaughn Killin), OICEPE members (Jacques Poulet, Christian Nault, Christian Page), Chris Rutkowski, Mike Strainic, Grant Wakefield, Mike McLarty, and Ian Rogers and Associates. Special thanks are also given to Tom's wife Lise and MUFON Headquarters in Seguin, Texas.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring theme throughout this final part is the exposé of the 'Carp Case' as a deliberate hoax. The editorial stance is one of debunking and exposing what the authors perceive as manipulation and misinformation within the UFO community. They position themselves as truth-tellers who have uncovered a fabricated event, contrasting their thorough research with the alleged unethical practices of Oechsler and his associates. The newsletter aims to provide readers with enough evidence to draw their own conclusions, while firmly guiding them towards the interpretation that the case is not genuine.