B-52 bomber crashes at California base, killing eight

A B-52 bomber crashed and burst into flames at Edwards Air Force Base in California's Mojave Desert on Monday, killing all eight people aboard. The aircraft went down around 11:20 a.m. during a routine test mission.

Aerial footage showed extensive damage to the aircraft, with large areas of charred desert near the runway. Emergency vehicles were present at the scene. The eight individuals on board included uniformed military personnel and government contractors. Boeing confirmed two of its employees were on the flight.

Col. James Hayes, deputy commander for the 412th Test Wing, stated at a news conference that no one could have survived the crash. "We lost eight great Americans," Hayes said, adding that families were being notified. The cause of the crash is unknown and an investigation may take up to six months. The B-52 was supporting a "radar modernization program."

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We lost eight great Americans.

The B-52 Stratofortress, a long-range bomber that entered service in 1955, has been used in various conflicts. Boeing sent a B-52 with a modernized radar system to Edwards in 2025 for testing. It was unclear if this was the same aircraft involved in Monday's crash. Edwards Air Force Base is a key site for the U.S. Air Force's aircraft test and development efforts.

Air Force Secretary Troy Meink expressed deep sadness over the loss of life. "We mourn this loss and honor the service of our Airmen, civilians, and contractors who work every day to advance our mission," he said. The airfield was closed for most of Monday, with inbound flights diverted, but reopened later in the afternoon. Visitor passes were suspended.

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We mourn this loss and honor the service of our Airmen, civilians, and contractors who work every day to advance our mission.