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F-16 crashes in northern Michigan in fiery wreck
The Detroit News • • general
Key Points:
- An F-16 fighter jet from the Texas Air National Guard crashed in a field south of Traverse City on Sept. 17 during a routine training mission, with the pilot ejecting safely and being hospitalized in stable condition.
- The crash site near Blair Township prompted a chemical spill evacuation within a one-mile radius, with emergency responders establishing a shelter and warning of potential munitions explosions.
- Witnesses reported seeing two pilots parachute from the aircraft before it crashed, and no civilian injuries or property damage were reported.
- The 149th Fighter Wing, based in Texas, was conducting Operation Northern Cactus training flights in Michigan at the time of the incident, which is currently under investigation by military and local authorities.
- Residents near the crash site experienced a loud explosion and thick black smoke, leading to shelter-in-place orders and heightened concern for safety.
