B-1 Bomber Crashes in Montana; Parachutes Seen After the Crash [VIDEO & REPORT]

By Jobs & Hire Staff Reporter | Aug 20, 2013 01:31 PM EDT

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A B-1 bomber plane crashed happened this morning after the aircraft experienced difficulties. The plane crashed in a remote part of Southeast Montana. According to the report by CBS News, the crew, which is composed of four men, escaped the crash by ejecting their seats. After the crash, witnessed reported seeing parachutes which descended into the nearby residential areas.

According to the spokesperson from Ellsworth Air Force Base which is situated in Rapid City, the crash occurred near Broadus. The plane carried two pilots and as well as a pair of two weapon systems officers. All four survived the crash and they sustained minor injuries. The Ellsworth air base is where the 28th Bomb Wing is located. The air force is dedicated for the flight and routine maintenance of 28 units of B-1 bombers. The air base is also home to three units of B-1 combat squadrons.

Col. Kevin Kennedy, the commander for the 28th Bomb Wing told the press that they are "actively working to ensure the safety of the crew members and have sent first responders to secure the scene and work closely with local authorities at the crash site". He also added that, ".. .all of our thoughts and prayers are with the crews and their families."

The US Fleet has approximately 60 B-1 bombers left. It is unknown whether the B-1 bomber that crashed will be repaired or deemed unfit to use.

After the crash, residents in the nearby area heard the emergency sirens which were activated between 9-10 am. The sirens were activated to alert the fire department and signal them to inspect the crash site. Aside from the fire department, the sheriff's office of the Carter County is also responding to the crisis.

Here is a video of a B-1 Bomber test flight:

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