T-38 Crashes, Pilots Eject Over Wichita Falls

Pilots OK after ejecting over Wichita Falls

Two pilots suffered minor injuries after ejecting from their jet, a T-38 Talon trainer, moments before it crashed in Wichita Falls Friday morning, Air Force officals say.

The plane went down south of Sheppard Air Force Base at approximately 6:48 a.m., near Pecanway Drive and Horton Lane in Wichita County, KFDX-TV reports.

The Times Record News in Wichita Falls reports the wreck was caused by jet striking a bird. Base spokesman Daniel Hawkins would not confirm the cause, citing the ongoing investigation.

Both the pilot, Maj. Christopher Thompson, and student pilot, German 1st. Lt. Julius Dressbach, ejected and, according to KFDX, suffered minor injuries.  One of the pilots was transported to United Regional for treatment.

KFDX reports the crash started a small fire and that a Wichita County Sheriff's Deputy suffered a broken leg while trying to scale a fence to help one of the pilots.

An investigation into the crash is underway, Air Force officials said Friday, and more information is expected to be released at a later time.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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