Video shows aftermath of B-52 bomber crash at California air base as 8 feared dead

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: A video circulating online shows the aftermath of a B-52 Stratofortress crash at Edwards Air Force Base after the military aircraft went down shortly after takeoff on Monday, June 15.

The bomber was carrying eight people on what officials described as a routine test mission when it crashed around 11.20 am PDT at the airfield in Kern County. Initial indications suggest there were no survivors, according to Edwards Air Force Base.

Video captures aftermath

Footage from the scene showed a large plume of smoke rising from the crash site as emergency crews responded to the airfield.

Officials said first responders arrived shortly after the aircraft went down. The base temporarily closed its airfield following the incident, with inbound aircraft diverted elsewhere while emergency operations continued.

Photos from the scene also showed smoke billowing near the wreckage as authorities worked to secure the area and account for personnel.

In a statement, Edwards Air Force Base said the B-52 was carrying eight people when it crashed shortly after takeoff.

"An Air Force B-52 Stratofortress carrying eight people on a routine test mission crashed today shortly after take-off at 11:20 a.m. (PDT). Initial indications are that the crash was not survivable," the base said. "Emergency response personnel are on scene, and officials are working to account for all personnel."

Rep Vince Fong also reacted to the incident on social media, writing, "Please join me in praying for the B-52 crew at Edwards Air Force Base and the entire Edwards community."

Investigation underway

The cause of the crash has not yet been disclosed. Edwards Air Force Base serves as the Air Force's primary flight-test center, where B-52 bombers are frequently used for testing and modernization programs.

The aircraft involved in the crash was reportedly conducting a routine test mission at the time of the incident.

The B-52 Stratofortress, a long-range strategic bomber that first entered service in the 1950s, remains a key part of the US Air Force fleet. The service currently operates 76 B-52 aircraft and is in the midst of a major modernization effort that includes new engines, upgraded avionics, and radar systems.

Officials have not confirmed whether the aircraft involved in the crash was participating in any of those testing programs. An investigation is expected to determine what caused the bomber to go down shortly after takeoff.