A United States Air Force F-16 fighter jet crashed near the San Bernardino/Inyo county line close proximity to Trona Airport, local authorities reported Sunday afternoon.
The incident occurred around 11:09 am PT (approximately 2:09 pm Eastern Time). According to ABC 7 News, emergency responders were dispatched to the scene in San Bernardino County. The pilot ejected safely from the aircraft during the crash and landed with a parachute.
Eyewitness accounts captured video of the fighter jet crashing into the ground near China Lake, resulting in an explosion and significant fire damage on Monday morning.
While details remain scarce, initial reports indicate that the plane involved was an F-16C Fighting Falcon assigned to the Thunderbirds demonstration team. The pilot, whose identity has not been specified further by official sources at this time, is believed to be affiliated with the San Bernardino County Fire Department and received prompt medical attention for non-life-threatening injuries.
The crash site video shows a dramatic explosion following impact as well as extensive black smoke rising from the scene shortly after midday.
