Five Missing Marines Confirmed Dead After Helicopter Crash During Training Flight

Five missing Marines have tragically been confirmed dead more than 24 hours after their CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter crashed during a routine training flight. The news of their demise was announced by the U.S. Marine Corps on Thursday.

The incident unfolded on Tuesday night when the helicopter, which had departed from Creech Air Force Base near Las Vegas, went missing and failed to arrive at its destination, Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego. Authorities promptly launched a search and rescue operation, calling on the assistance of the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department and the Civil Air Patrol.

The search efforts were initially hindered by inclement weather conditions which hindered their progress. The San Diego County Sheriff’s Department was unable to reach the crash site due to heavy rain and snow in the area at the time. However, at 9:08 a.m. on Wednesday, the helicopter was located.

Efforts are now underway to recover the remains of the five fallen Marines, while a thorough investigation is being conducted to determine the cause of the crash. President Joe Biden expressed his heartfelt condolences and emphasized the importance of supporting the families of the deceased and the Marine Corps community during this difficult time.

Major General Michael J. Borgschulte also extended his sincerest condolences to the families of the fallen Marines and promised to provide the necessary support and care. He expressed gratitude towards the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department, the U.S. Air Force Auxiliary-Civil Air Patrol, and other agencies for their dedicated assistance in the search and recovery operation.

Additional details regarding the circumstances leading to the crash and the identities of the Marines have not been released at this time.

ABC News correspondent Fritz Farrow contributed to the coverage of this tragic incident.