BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — A crash involving a B-52 bomber at Edwards Air Force Base on June 11 resulted in eight fatalities, as confirmed by military officials.
The aircraft went down shortly after takeoff. Authorities stated that a preliminary investigation is underway to determine the cause of the crash. Emergency response teams, including fire and medical personnel, were deployed to the scene to assist.
Among the deceased is Jeromy Smith, a flight test engineer at Edwards AFB, who had worked in the unit for a decade. He is survived by his wife, Lauren, and their two children, aged 2 years and 4 months.
Lauren Smith described her husband as a dedicated family man, noting that they had recently celebrated their four-year wedding anniversary. A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support the family during this difficult time.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.