LOS ANGELES (TNND) — A B-52 bomber crashed shortly after takeoff at Edwards Air Force Base in Southern California on Tuesday, killing all eight people aboard.
According to military officials, the aircraft burst into flames upon impact, with Col. James Hayes of the 412th Test Wing stating that the crash resulted in no survivors. “We lost eight great Americans,” Hayes confirmed in a news conference.
The B-52 was carrying a mix of government contractors and military personnel. Boeing has identified two employees on board and expressed condolences to the families affected. “We extend our deepest condolences to the loved ones of the eight crew members who lost their lives,” the company stated.
Investigation into the incident is ongoing, with officials estimating a timeline of up to six months for completion. The B-52 was reportedly supporting the Air Force's radar modernization program at the time of the crash.
In the wake of the incident, videos showed black smoke billowing from the crash site, prompting a diversion of all inbound aircraft to the base. Preliminary assessments indicate potential flight-control malfunctions may have contributed to the crash.
The Boeing B-52 Stratofortress, operational since 1955, is designed for long-range missions and can carry conventional and nuclear payloads. Edwards Air Force Base, located approximately 100 miles north of Los Angeles, is a key facility for aircraft testing and development.
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Editor's note: The Associated Press contributed to this article.