Local emergency responders extinguish the fires caused by the CV-22 Osprey crash that occurred at Eglin Range at 6:45 p.m. June 13, 2012. Eglin and Hurlburt Field firefighters reacted quickly to control the flames from spreading and causing further damage to the local environment. (U.S. Air Force photo/Airman First Class Christopher Williams) Released
Airmen injured during CV-22 Osprey crash treated at local hospitals
1st Special Operations Wing Public Affairs
6/14/2012 - HURLBURT FIELD, Fla. -- Five aircrew members were injured when their tilt-rotor aircraft crashed north of Navarre, Fla. on the Eglin Range.
At approximately 6:45 p.m. June 13, Hurlburt Field was notified that a 1st Special Operations Wing aircraft had crashed on the Eglin Range during a routine training mission. Emergency responders from the base and Okaloosa County arrived at the scene where they found the five members of the aircrew and transported them to local hospitals.
None of the injuries are life-threatening.
Major Brian Luce, one of the pilots, was transported to Eglin Air Force Base hospital, where he is listed in stable condition.
Captain Brett Cassidy, the second pilot, was transported to Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola, where he is listed in stable condition.
Staff Sgt. Sean McMahon, flight engineer, was transported to Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola, where he is listed in guarded condition.
Tech. Sgt. Christopher Dawson, flight engineer, was transported to Eglin Air Force Base hospital, where he is listed in stable condition.
Tech. Sgt. Edilberto Malave, flight engineer, was transported to Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola, where he is listed in stable condition.
"Supporting our families at home is a critical component of defending our nation abroad," said Col. Jim Slife, 1st Special Operations Wing commander. "Right now, our efforts are focused on doing all we can to support our injured Airmen and their families."
A board of officials is investigating the accident. Base officials stress that the accident site may contain hazardous materials released from the crash, and ask that individuals refrain from entering the area.
