UPDATE: Navy officials say both aviators aboard the F/A-18F jet that crashed Wednesday afternoon in Key West have died. An investigation is underway to determine the cause of the crash.
KEY WEST, Fla. – A Navy jet based out of Naval Air Station Oceana crashed in Key West on Wednesday afternoon, according to NAS Oceana officials.
The F/A-18F Super Hornet, carrying two crew members, was on its final approach to Boca Chica Field at Naval Air Station Key West at the time of the crash around 4:30 p.m.
Officials say both the pilot and the weapons systems officer ejected from the jet and landed in the water.
The two were recovered approximately a mile east of the runway and taken to the hospital, but officials couldn’t confirm their condition. The crew members are part of the Strike Fighter Squadron 213 (VFA-213) Blacklions, officials confirmed.
A witness told Miami’s ABC affiliate the jet exploded in the air and crashed.
Photos on social media showed a rescue helicopter hovering over the jet as it sat overturned in the water.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
