DES MOINES, Iowa — Iowa leaders are mourning Maj. Brad Hovey, an Air Force pilot, who was among eight fatalities in a B-52 bomber crash on October 23 in Southern California.
According to the Air Force, the crash occurred shortly after takeoff during a test flight supporting a radar modernization program. The bomber was destroyed, and a thorough investigation is currently underway, which authorities estimate could take up to six months.
Gov. Kim Reynolds issued a statement honoring Hovey, highlighting the sacrifices made by military personnel. “As we honor Maj. Hovey's life and service, let us never forget the cost of our freedom,” she stated.
Hovey, 35, originally from Algona, graduated from Adel-De Soto-Minburn High School in 2009 and later earned an aerospace engineering degree from Iowa State University in 2014. He served as a pilot with the 419th Flight Test Squadron at Edwards Air Force Base.
Iowa Senate Democratic Leader Janice Weiner also expressed her condolences, stating, “I am eternally grateful for Maj. Hovey's bravery and his dedicated service to his fellow countrymen.”
The Air Force has confirmed the identities of all eight victims, which include both current and former officers as well as two Boeing contractors.