A U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortress crashed shortly after takeoff from Edwards Air Force Base on Monday, prompting an immediate emergency response and raising concerns about the status of the crew onboard.
The aircraft went down on the airfield at approximately 11:20 a.m., according to a statement posted by the base on social media.
“A United States Air Force B-52 Stratofortress crashed shortly after takeoff on the Edwards airfield at 11:20 a.m.,” the base said.
“Emergency crews immediately responded to the scene and the situation is ongoing.”
Officials did not immediately provide information about casualties or injuries.
Images from the scene showed smoke rising from the crash site as emergency personnel converged on the wreckage.
Rep. Vince Fong called for prayers following the incident.
“Please join me in praying for the B-52 crew at Edwards Air Force Base and the entire Edwards community,” Fong wrote on X.
Both Edwards Air Force Base and Air Force headquarters at the Pentagon referred inquiries to the initial statement and declined to release additional details while the situation remained active.
The B-52 typically carries a crew of five, including two pilots, a radar navigator, navigator and electronic warfare officer. The condition of those aboard was not immediately known.
Known as one of the most recognizable aircraft in the U.S. military arsenal, the Boeing B-52 Stratofortress has served as America’s premier long-range strategic bomber for decades. Despite first entering service in the 1950s, the aircraft remains a critical component of the nation’s nuclear deterrent and conventional strike capabilities
This story is developing…
🚨 BREAKING: A B-52 Stratofortress bomber has CRASHED at Edwards Air Force base in California
No word on casualties at this time, but its not looking good.
PLEASE pray for some sort of miracle for our service members 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/ntQ2EAUC2N
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) June 15, 2026
