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8 presumed dead in B-52 bomber crash
A U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress crashed in Kern County, California. According to officials, eight people are presumed dead.
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. - A military jet carrying eight people crashed upon takeoff at Edwards Air Force Base in Kern County. Officials said it was "not survivable."
What we know:
Military officials said the crash involving an Air Force B-52 happened shortly after takeoff in the remote area. Aerial images from SkyFOX showed fire crews at the scene and a plume of smoke on the runway.
According to a release published by Edwards Air Force Base, "initial indications are that the crash was not survivable."
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Military jet crashes at Edwards Air Force Base
Military officials confirmed a B-52 Stratofortress crashed at takeoff at Edwards Air Force Base in Kern County.
What they're saying:
"A United States Air Force B-52 Stratofortress crashed shortly after takeoff on the Edwards airfield at 11:20 a.m. Emergency crews immediately responded to the scene and the situation is ongoing. More information will be provided as it becomes available," a statement posted to social media said.
In a second update posted just after 1 p.m., Edwards Air Force Base officials said the airfield was closed and all incoming aircraft would be diverted.
"All non-commercial visitor passes have been suspended until further notice to allow the installation to focus entirely on emergency response operations."
"Please join me in praying for the B-52 crew at Edwards Air Force Base and the entire Edwards community," said Rep. Vince Fong on X.
What we don't know:
The cause of the crash is under investigation. The names of the Airmen who were on the aircraft have not been released.
The Source: This story was written with information from military officials.