LOS ANGELES (TNND) — A B-52 bomber crashed shortly after takeoff at Edwards Air Force Base in Southern California on Tuesday, killing all eight individuals on board.
According to military officials, the aircraft went down shortly after takeoff, bursting into flames. Col. James Hayes, deputy commander of the 412th Test Wing, stated that the crash is fatal for all crew members.
Passengers included government contractors and military personnel, with Boeing confirming that two of its employees were among the deceased. The company expressed condolences in a statement, asserting ongoing support for the victims' families.
The investigation into the cause of the crash is expected to take up to six months. Hayes indicated that the bomber was participating in the Air Force's radar modernization program at the time.
Witnesses reported seeing black smoke rising from the crash site, and the base diverted all inbound aircraft. Aviation safety expert Jeff Guzzetti suggested that a flight-control malfunction could be a possible factor, noting the aircraft's rapid descent shortly after takeoff.
The Boeing B-52 Stratofortress, in service since 1955, is designed to carry both conventional and nuclear weapons. Edwards Air Force Base, roughly 100 miles north of Los Angeles, plays a key role in aircraft testing and development efforts for the Air Force.
Authorities have stated that further details will emerge as the investigation unfolds.