Blair Township, MI – A Texas Air National Guard F‑16 fighter jet crashed Thursday afternoon while conducting a routine training mission out of the National Guard Base in Alpena, Michigan. The aircraft impacted a field near a rural road, sending a large plume of black smoke into the sky.
Eyewitness accounts
Local residents reported hearing a loud explosion and seeing the smoke. “We thought there was a car accident outside our house,” said Wendy Sobeck, who lives minutes from the crash site. “We saw big billowing black smoke and then the plane debris in the field. Explosions kept happening.” Her husband drove his pickup truck to the scene, where they observed the wreckage and the ongoing fire.
Military response
Sgt. Derek Gutierrez, public affairs specialist with the 149th Fighter Wing, confirmed that the pilot ejected safely and was transported to a nearby hospital for medical evaluation. “The pilot is receiving treatment and is expected to recover,” Gutierrez said, adding that details about the pilot’s identity and any injuries are being withheld in accordance with military policy.
Safety measures and shelter‑in‑place advisory
Following the crash, local authorities issued a shelter‑in‑place advisory for residents within a one‑mile radius of the impact site. The advisory was lifted after emergency crews secured the area, extinguished the fire, and cleared debris. No civilian injuries were reported.
Impact on training operations
The National Guard Base in Alpena temporarily suspended flight operations while investigators from the Air Force Safety Center examine the cause of the crash. Officials emphasized that such incidents are rare and that the safety of aircrew remains a top priority.
Community reaction
Neighbors expressed concern but also gratitude for the quick response of emergency personnel. “We’re thankful the pilot is okay and that the fire was put out quickly,” said a local farmer who witnessed the event.
The investigation will continue over the coming weeks, and the Air National Guard will release further details as they become available.
Original reporting: Allentown News – 6abc Philadelphia — read the source article.
