9 killed after military plane crashes near Savannah

9 killed after military plane crashes near Savannah

All nine people aboard an aging military plane making its final flight were killed when the aircraft nosedived into a Georgia highway.

The Puerto Rico Air National Guard WC-130 was carrying nine crew members when it crashed, the Guard said in a statement. It was flying from the coastal city of Savannah, Georgia to Tucson, Arizona, where it was to be decommissioned.
The plane involved in Wednesday’s crash was at least 50 years old, according to an official familiar with the aircraft.
“Nine crew members died in the accident, but until their families and relatives are notified, we cannot give their names,” Brig. Gen. Isabelo Rivera said. “Our prayers, thoughts and condolences to the families and loved ones of our aviators.”
One witness said the plane made a “loud, strange noise” just before the crash. Another said the ground shook as if a bomb went off when it hit.
Video from a business near the crash shows the horrifying final moments of the hulking plane, a version normally outfitted to do weather reconnaissance.
The jet, with four turboprop engines on its overhead wing, banks left as it comes down. The plane then heads straight down behind trees. Seconds later a fireball and thick black smoke appear.
Puerto Rico governor sent his condolences.
“While we are waiting for more information regarding this unfortunate accident, my thoughts and those of Beatriz are with the families of the crew. They will receive our support and that of the National Guard of Puerto Rico in this process, ” Gov. Ricardo Rosselló said.
President Donald Trump tweeted his support.
“Please join me in thoughts and prayers for the victims, their families and the great men and women of the National Guard,” he said.
All the airmen were from Puerto Rico, officials said.

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President Donald Trump Gen. Isabelo Rivera Gov. Ricardo Rosselló said military plane crashes Puerto Rico Air National Guard WC-130

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