According to newly obtained audio files, the Marine Corps made an urgent call to 911 when one of their F-35 fighter jets went missing in South Carolina last September.
Military sources described the incident as a “mishap” that occurred over the Lowcountry on September 17, 2023.
Newly released audio files show that the Marine Corps called 911 after one of their F-35 fighter jets went missing in South Carolina last September:
Newly released audio files show that the Marine Corps called 911 after one of their F-35 fighter jets went missing in South Carolina last September. https://t.co/Bqjup5ELSx
— ABC News (@ABC) January 20, 2024
Confusion and Concern: Marine Corps Coordinates Emergency Response
The audio files reveal a major from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort informing a Williamsburg County 911 operator about a possible aircraft collision.
Despite the pilot’s survival, who ejected and landed safely in a North Charleston neighbourhood, the F-35 continued on its path, leading officials to launch an emergency response.
Challenges in Locating the Jet: Debris Found 75 Miles Away
Dispatch audio files revealed initial misunderstanding over the jet’s location, prompting authorities to turn to military resources.
A Charleston County resident even contacted law police after the F-35 pilot unexpectedly landed in their neighbourhood, aggravated the matter even further.
Updated grid coordinates eventually led emergency crews to a remote location along the border of Williamsburg and Florence counties, where F-35 debris was located.
This location was over 75 kilometres from the neighbourhood where the pilot landed.
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Ongoing Investigation: Questions Remain on Cause
The cause of the incident, resulting in a substantial $100 million loss, remains unknown.
In September, the Marine Corps announced the initiation of an investigation conducted by the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing.
Officials anticipate that the investigation will continue for several months as they work to unravel the mystery surrounding the missing F-35 jet.