A U.S. military jet crashed in flames in front of shocked onlookers near Rimrock Lake, a popular recreational spot. The incident resulted in thick black smoke rising above the surrounding forest area. Witnesses observed the pilot ejecting from the aircraft just moments before the crash.
Naches Fire confirmed the dispatch of crews to the site of the “downed military aircraft” near the lake. The crash ignited a wildfire that is currently being contained by helicopters and at least one engine from the U.S. Forest Service – Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest.
According to a statement from Marine Aircraft Group 11, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, the crash, which occurred around midday, was deemed a “non-fatal aviation mishap during routine training.” The incident involved an F/A-18 Hornet aircraft based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in California.