Overview
- The jet went down at about 10:45 a.m. on Dec. 3 over a dry lakebed near Trona in the Mojave Desert, according to Nellis Air Force Base.
- The pilot ejected seconds before impact, was located by rescuers, received medical treatment, and was reported in stable condition.
- Local fire crews contained the post-crash blaze, and authorities reported no injuries on the ground or damage to nearby structures.
- The aircraft was part of a multi-ship Thunderbirds training sortie that departed Nellis AFB, with six jets launching and five returning.
- The 57th Wing opened a formal investigation, with recovery and analysis of flight data, engine debris, and recorded communications underway.