ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- A 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing F/A-18C Hornet belonging to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232 stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar crashed in farmland the vicinity of Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England at approximately 5:30 a.m. (EDT), today.
The Marine Corps officially confirmed the death of the pilot, but it is unknown at this time if the pilot ejected from the single-seat aircraft.
The aircraft was transiting from Bahrain to Miramar in a flight of six aircraft when it crashed approximately six miles northwest of the airfield. The remaining five F/A-18C's safely diverted to RAF Lossiemouth. The United Kingdom Coast Guard is currently on the scene of the crash site and is in close coordination with U.S. military officials.
The aircraft from VMFA 232 began returning to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar this week after a six-month deployment to the Central Command area of military operations.
Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of the pilot. The cause of the crash is still unknown.
More information will be released from the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing Public Affairs office as it becomes available.
Phone: 858-577-6000
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