The search for five missing Marines has ended in tragedy after officials confirmed their deaths following a helicopter crash in California. The group was aboard a CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter that went down during a training flight from Creech Air Force Base in Nevada to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego.
As per official reports, the helicopter's last known location was reported around 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday, with the aircraft being declared overdue by 1 a.m. the following morning. A search operation ensued that involved various agencies, including the San Diego County Sheriff's Department and Civil Air Patrol. However, storm conditions hampered immediate efforts. The wreckage was eventually located at 9:08 a.m. on Wednesday, as confirmed by a ABC News report.
The identities of the Marines hailing from Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361 are being withheld until 24 hours after next-of-kin notifications. "It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that I share the loss of five outstanding Marines from 3d Marine Aircraft Wing and the 'Flying Tigers' while conducting a training flight last night," Maj. Gen. Michael J. Borgschulte stated in remarks provided to CBS News. The president and first lady have also addressed this loss, with President Biden expressing they are "heartbroken" at the loss.
Recovery efforts of the bodies and the aircraft's equipment are now a priority, alongside an investigation into the crash's cause. President Biden further extended his gratitude to all involved agencies, declaring, "As the Department of Defense continues to assess what occurred, we extend our deepest condolences to their families, their squadron, and the U.S. Marine Corps as we grieve the loss of five of our nation's finest warriors," according to a statement.
