CALIFORNIA (TNND) — An Air Force B-52 crashed shortly after takeoff at Edwards Air Force Base on Monday morning, resulting in eight presumed fatalities.
According to U.S. Air Force officials, the aircraft was on a routine test mission when it went down around 11:20 a.m. Rescue efforts have transitioned to recovery efforts, with no survivors expected.
Emergency crews responded swiftly to the scene, as smoke was reported rising from the airfield. All inbound aircraft were redirected and the situation remains ongoing.
The B-52 Stratofortress was carrying eight personnel at the time of the incident. It is a long-range bomber designed for both conventional and nuclear operations, first introduced in the 1950s.
The base confirmed the incident via a statement on social media, extending condolences to the families affected: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and unit members at this time.”
Investigation into the crash's cause is underway, with additional information anticipated as it becomes available.