On January 6, 1976, three women—Mona Stafford, Louise Smith, and Elaine Thomas—reported a terrifying alien abduction experience while driving near Stanford, Kentucky. Their account included a period of missing time, physical effects, and later, under regressive hypnosis, detailed recollections of being taken aboard a UFO and medically examined by shadowy beings.1 The case gained significant attention due to the women's credible testimonies and the physical symptoms they exhibited, making it one of the most compelling alleged alien abduction cases on record.2
The Encounter
Around 11:15 PM, while driving on Highway 78, the women observed a bright red, disc-shaped object in the sky. Initially thinking it was an airplane on fire, they soon realized it was a massive object, described as larger than "two houses," with a metallic gray appearance, a white glowing dome, and rotating red lights.3 The object reportedly caused their car to accelerate to 85 mph, even though the engine had stalled and Louise Smith was not touching the pedal. The women experienced a period of "lost time," approximately 80 to 90 minutes, during which they could not account for their whereabouts. They later found themselves several miles from where the encounter began.4
Physical Effects and Investigation
Following the event, the women reported various physical symptoms, including red, burn-like marks on their necks, irritated eyes, and a burning sensation when water touched their skin. Louise Smith's watch also began spinning uncontrollably.5 A Lexington police detective administered lie detector tests to the three women, which they all passed, indicating their truthfulness.6 Additionally, other independent witnesses in nearby Casey and Lincoln counties reported UFO sightings on the same night, lending further credence to the women's account. Under regressive hypnosis, they recalled being taken aboard the object and medically examined by shadowy beings, solidifying the case as a significant alleged alien abduction.7