A search and rescue operation at MCAS Miramar came to a tragic end on Friday morning after the body of the pilot of the crashed F/A-18 fighter jet was found on Thursday night.
The crash was reported shortly before midnight in a remote part of the site east of Interstate 15, MCAS Public Affairs confirmed to NBC 7.
“A US Marine Corps pilot has been recovered during a search and rescue mission and has been confirmed dead on site,” officials said in a news release sent out by the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing at 11 a.m. “Only the pilot was on board. With a heavy heart, our condolences go out to the Marine’s family at this time.”
Following military protocol, the pilot’s identity will not be released until 24 hours after next of kin has been notified.
The cause of the accident is unknown. The aircraft was part of a Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron [VMFA (AW)] 224, officials said on Friday.
There were no signs of damage to property on the ground.
San Diego police were the first to respond to the incident, but officers from MCAS Miramar conducted the investigation.
No other information available.
Please refresh this page for updates on this story. Details may change as more information becomes available.
