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Iowa native among 8 people killed
KCCI • • nation
Key Points:
- A B-52 bomber crashed shortly after takeoff Monday at Edwards Air Force Base in Southern California, killing all eight people aboard, including Iowa native Maj. Brad Hovey, a 35-year-old pilot from Algona.
- The victims included a mix of military personnel, Boeing employees, and government contractors, with Maj. Hovey being a 2009 ADM graduate and 2014 Iowa State University aerospace engineering alumnus.
- The cause of the crash is under investigation and may take up to six months; the aircraft was conducting a routine test mission supporting the radar modernization program.
- Edwards Air Force Base, known for its developmental testing of Air Force aircraft and historic aviation milestones, expressed deep condolences and is focused on supporting the families of the fallen airmen.
- The B-52, a long-range bomber in service since 1955, is undergoing upgrades to complement the newer B-21 Raider, including new engines, avionics, and communication systems.
