US Navy pilot killed in fighter-jet crash in California desert

“The navy mourns this tragic loss alongside the family, friends and shipmates of Lieutenant Bullock,” the Navy statement said…reports Asian Lite News

 A US Navy fighter jet crashed in the Southern California desert, killing the pilot, authorities confirmed Sunday night.

According to a press release from the US Navy, pilot Lt. Richard Bullock, who was assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 113 based at the Naval Air Station Lemoore of California, was killed when his F/A-18E Super Hornet crashed in the vicinity of Trona, about 260 km north of Los Angeles downtown, at approximately 2:30 p.m. Friday local time.

Bullock’s home of record is listed as Montana, media reported.

Bullock was flying a routine training mission at the time before his aircraft went down in a remote, unpopulated area, the Navy said, adding no civilians were harmed as a result of this incident, which was under investigation and the scene of the crash had been secured by Navy and local authorities.

“The navy mourns this tragic loss alongside the family, friends and shipmates of Lieutenant Bullock,” the Navy statement said.

Montana’s two US Senators paid tribute to Lt. Bullock on Monday.

“Max was passionate about making the world a better place, and that’s exactly what he did in service to our country,” said Senator Jon Tester.

Senator Steve Daines said on Twitter, “Cindy and I are extending our heartfelt prayers to the family and loved ones of Navy pilot Lt. Richard Bullock of Montana who tragically died in a plane crash last Friday. We are so grateful for his service.”

Governor Greg Gianforte also offered condolences, saying “Susan and I are heartbroken to learn of the loss of Lt. Richard Bullock, a Montanan and pilot in the U.S. Navy. We ask Montanans to keep Max’s family and loved ones in their prayers.”

Friday’s crash was at least the fourth involving a navy Super Hornet jet – and second deadly one – on a training mission since 2019, according to the Associated Press.

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