F-16 fighter jet crashes in residential area of US

NBC News has reported that an F-16 fighter jet has crashed in a residential area of Grand Traverse County in northern Michigan of the United States. The pilot was able to eject safely before the aircraft crashed on Friday (September 18).

A spokesperson of the Texas Military Department said the aircraft that took off from Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center met with the accident during a regular training flight. Michigan State Police said the pilot’s condition is stable. He has been taken to a local hospital for treatment.

Blair Township supervisor Nicole Blanchaine confirmed that no civilian on the ground was injured though the accident occurred in a residential area.

After the accident, all houses and business establishments within a one-mile radius of the site were ordered to be evacuated over fears of chemical or hazardous materials spreading. However, the evacuation order was lifted around 9:30pm after the rescue work was completed.

Eyewitness Nicole Conrad said after a loud noise she saw a colourful parachute and the pilot coming down from the sky. Another eyewitness Ed Wilson said the aircraft went straight down. After a loud explosion black smoke was seen rising.

According to air traffic control audio messages, it is assumed that the accident may have occurred due to engine failure after a bird strike. However, the Texas Military Department has started an investigation to find out the exact cause of the accident.