B-52 Crash at Edwards AFB Claims Eight Lives
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, CA – Eight individuals were killed Wednesday when a B-52 Stratofortress crashed shortly after takeoff.
Among the deceased are Col. Gregory Watson, 53, an Air Force reservist from Shreveport, Louisiana; Lt. Col. Gabriel Estrella, 40, stationed at Edwards; and retired Lt. Col. Miles Middleton, 50, a Boeing pilot from Tehachapi, California. Other victims include Maj. Alexander Davis, 34; Maj. Robert Dee, 40; Maj. Brad Hovey, 35; Jeromy Smith, 32; and Christopher Rischar, 41, all associated with the 419th Flight Test Squadron.
“Our thoughts, prayers and deepest sympathies are with their families, loved ones and fellow Airmen, Air Force civilians, and mission partners affected by this tragedy,” said Col. Thomas Tauer.
The cause of the crash is under investigation, according to military authorities. Further details regarding the incident, including roadway conditions and emergency response efforts, are pending.