WASHINGTON (Agencies): The US Marine Corps confirmed on Thursday that five Marines lost their lives in a helicopter crash in California on February 6, 2024. The deceased Marines were part of the Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 361, Marine Aircraft Group 16, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.
The fatal incident occurred during a training flight. Efforts are currently underway to recover the remains of the Marines and the equipment involved in the crash. An investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash has also been initiated.
The Marines who lost their lives were assigned to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. This unit is presently overseeing all search and rescue operations in collaboration with federal, state, and local agencies in San Diego County.
This incident follows another recent tragedy involving an F/A-18 fighter jet crash at the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego, which resulted in the death of a pilot.