A US NAVY training jet has crashed into a residential area in Virginia after the two pilots ejected from the aircraft shortly after takeoff.
Six people were taken to hospital following the crash, including the two pilots.
Virginia Beach General Hospital said that one patient has already been released after the incident, which happened at around 5pm Irish time.
Two people have been treated for smoke inhalation and a third had passed out. One of the crew members is currently in fair condition while the other is in good condition, the hospital said.
A spokesperson for the US Fleet Forces said the two-seater plane had been on a training exercise from the nearby naval air base.
(Video via WNAYNews)
Admiral John C Harvey Junior, commander with the US Fleet Forces said the Navy is coordinating with authorities in the area.
My thoughts and prayers are with our citizens and families who have been impacted by the tragic crash today in Virginia Beach by an aircraft from NAS Oceana.I deeply regret that some in our community have lost their homes, and I, like many, pray for the well-being of all.
Admiral Harvey said that a complete investigation will be carried out into the incident.
The Governor of Virginia Bob McDonnell said that “all possible steps” are being taken to provide resources and assistance to those impacted by the crash of the fighter jet.
“We are monitoring events carefully as they unfold and State Police resources are now on the scene. Our fervent prayer is that no one was injured or killed in this accident”.
(Smoke billowing from the apartment complex where the Navy jet crashed. Photo: AP Photo/WVEC TV)
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