Michigan, US: An F-16 fighter jet belonging to the Texas Air National Guard crashed in Michigan’s Grand Traverse County on Thursday while conducting a routine training mission.
According to CBS News, the pilot safely ejected from the aircraft but sustained injuries. The pilot was taken for medical treatment and was later reported to be in stable condition.
The aircraft, operated by the 149th Fighter Wing of the Texas National Guard, was conducting the training sortie from the Air National Guard’s Combat Readiness Training Centre in Alpena when the incident occurred.
F-16 Crashes During Training Sortie
The Texas Military Department confirmed that an F-16 Fighting Falcon was involved in an incident during the afternoon. However, officials did not immediately provide details about what caused the crash.
The pilot ejected from the aircraft before it went down and was transported for medical treatment. A spokesperson for the 149th Fighter Wing said the pilot was in stable condition.
Michigan State Police, assisting the Grand Traverse County Sheriff’s Office, said there were no reports of additional injuries.
Evacuation Ordered After Hazardous Chemical Spill
According to The Hill, Michigan State Police ordered people within a one-mile radius of the crash site to evacuate because of a hazardous chemical spill associated with the aircraft.
Residents had initially been instructed to shelter in place and keep their windows and doors closed.
The fighter jet crashed near County Road 633 and Blair Townhall Road. Authorities closed roads around the crash site and urged residents and motorists to stay away from the area while emergency crews responded.
Possible Bird Strike Under Investigation
The Hill reported that air traffic control audio indicated a possible bird strike shortly before the F-16 went down. However, military officials have not confirmed that the aircraft struck a bird.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the crash. Further details are awaited.