Helicopter crash claims lives of 5 US Marines

On Wednesday, news broke that five United States Marines were "missing" after their helicopter had crashed on a trip from Nevada to California.

According to Fox News, the Pentagon confirmed the worst-case scenario on Thursday, reporting that the five Marines were declared dead as a result of the crash.

After an hours-long search on Wednesday, search crews discovered the downed CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter but had yet to recover the Marines that were aboard it.

Fox News noted:

Local first responders were first contacted regarding the incident early Wednesday morning. The San Diego Sheriff's Office attempted to send a helicopter to begin the search immediately, but the aircraft was called off due to the "atmospheric river" storm hitting the area.

First responders eventually found the deceased Marines on Thursday morning.

Maj. Gen. Borgschulte, commanding general for the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, released a statement regarding the loss of the five Marines.

"It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that I share the loss of five outstanding Marines from the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and the 'Flying Tigers' while conducting a training flight last night," the commanding general said.

Update: The five 3rd MAW Marines have been confirmed deceased.

“To the families of our fallen Marines, we send our deepest condolences and commit to ensuring your support and care during this incredibly difficult time.” -Maj. Gen. Borgschulte, 3rd MAW Commanding General pic.twitter.com/CBLs2jDKWG

— 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing (@3rdmaw) February 8, 2024

Borgschulte added, "These pilots and crew members were serving a calling greater than self and were proud to do so. We will forever be grateful for their call to duty and selfless service."

"To the families of our fallen Marines, we send our deepest condolences and commit to ensuring your support and care during this incredibly difficult time," he went on.

As of this writing, the names of the fallen Marines have not been released due to military protocols that allow for at least 24 hours to notify next-of-kin.

President Joe Biden released a statement through the White House mourning the loss of the Marines.

"Jill and I are heartbroken at the loss of five U.S. Marines, whose aircraft crashed while flying from Nevada to California during a routine training mission. As the Department of Defense continues to assess what occurred, we extend our deepest condolences to their families, their squadron, and the U.S. Marine Corps as we grieve the loss of five of our nation’s finest warriors," the president's statement said.

Tributes to the fallen Marines poured in across social media on Thursday.