DELTA COUNTY, MI-- The pilot of a fighter jet that crashed in the Hiawatha National Forest is dead.
The Wisconsin Air National Guard’s 115th Fighter Wing made the announcement at 5:30 p.m. Thursday. The pilot’s identity will not be released until 24 hours following the notification of next of kin.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss; our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time,” 115th Fighter Wing commander Col. Bart Van Roo said. “Today is a day for mourning, the 115th Fighter Wing and the entire Wisconsin National Guard stands with the pilot’s family as we grieve the loss of a great Airman and patriot. We are an extremely close-knit group at the fighter wing, the loss of one of our own brings immeasurable sadness to every member of our organization,” he said.
The Fighting Falcon went down Tuesday night in a densely forested portion of Delta County. The pilot was on a routine training mission. A multi-state, interagency search for the pilot and aircraft immediately followed.
The cause of the crash is under investigation.
Officials will release additional details as they become available.
