An F-35 fighter jet from the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing experienced a crash on Friday morning, leading to an emergency operation at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego. The incident, which also sparked a brush fire, was confirmed by a base spokesperson through a statement to Fox News.
Responding to what the Marine Corps referred to as an “aircraft mishap,” emergency teams were dispatched to the flight line around 10 a.m. local time. The F-35, assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 11 and stationed at MCAS Miramar, was involved in the incident, as noted by 1st Lt. Blake Starbuck.
The U.S. Marines detailed the seriousness of the event, classifying it as a “Class A mishap” involving a Marine Corps F-35B near the Miramar base. Fortunately, the pilot managed to eject safely and was recovered without delay.
While speaking with Fox News, Starbuck mentioned that information about the flight’s purpose, including whether it was a training sortie, and details about any injuries or fatalities were not available at the time.
Currently, the underlying causes of the crash remain unknown, leaving several questions unanswered as investigations continue.
The crash sparked a fire in a field just north of state Route 52, which was visible from the freeway. ( KSWB)
Video from SkyRanger 7 showed the aircraft in two pieces amid a football-field-sized scorched area. A fire burned in a field north of State Route 52 and was visible from the freeway, prompting calls to the California Highway Patrol.
The San Diego Fire-Rescue Department confirmed to Fox News it was assisting with the brush fire, but said the military has jurisdiction over the incident.
No press conference has been scheduled. Officials said additional information will be released as it becomes available.
This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.