Navy Alerts Public to Crash Debris in San Diego Bay
The wreckage from a fighter jet crash may appear to be weapons or classified materials and could pose hazards if touched, according to the Navy.
On February 13, the U.S. Navy alerted the public to avoid any debris that might wash ashore following a fighter jet incident in San Diego Bay during a landing attempt.
“The public is urged to stay away from the area and refrain from interfering with recovery operations,” the Navy stated.
According to the Navy, certain pieces of debris may look like weapons or classified parts, which could be dangerous if mishandled.
Two military pilots successfully ejected and were rescued by a fishing vessel before being taken to a hospital for evaluation, according to Navy reports.
Both pilots were reported to be in stable condition and placed under a 24-hour watch, as stated by the Navy.
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The Navy is coordinating the retrieval of the aircraft, with the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group One overseeing the salvage operations.
Efforts are focused on quickly removing the aircraft from the water while minimizing environmental impact, the Navy emphasized.
Harbor security boats were deployed to secure the crash site on Wednesday evening. A containment boom was installed to limit the spread of fuel and debris, while environmental and safety teams worked to mitigate any impacts, the Navy reported.
There have been no civilian injuries or damages reported.
The Navy base’s emergency operations center remained active on Thursday as the investigation into the crash’s cause continued.
U.S. Navy boats operate along the shore near Shelter Island following a Navy plane crash in San Diego Bay on Feb. 12. Denis Poroy/AP Photo
The aircraft belonged to the Electronic Attack Squadron based at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in Washington state and was attempting to land at Naval Air Station North Island on Coronado Peninsula in San Diego.
The EA-18G Growler is a variant of the F/A-18 aircraft family, equipped with advanced electronic warfare technology, capable of performing numerous enemy defense suppression missions.
Some onboard technologies include communication jamming capabilities and electronically scanned array radar.
