EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 49th Wing crashed west of Holloman Air Force base Tuesday morning, April 30 near White Sands National Park, Holloman Air Force Base said in a news release.
The sole pilot on board successfully ejected and was transported by ambulance for medical care.
The crash happened at about 11:50 a.m. Tuesday, Holloman officials said.
Emergency response teams are responding to the scene using the entrance road at White Sands National Park. The park is open but certain areas are currently closed off to the public to allow for emergency crews, Holloman officials said.
All non-emergency personnel should avoid the area to prevent possible exposure to hazardous chemicals onboard the aircraft, officials said.
An investigation conducted by a board of “qualified officers” is underway to determine the cause of the crash.
Holloman says it will release more details when they become available.
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