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Fighter Jet Explodes Off San Diego, 10 Sailors Injured
A Marine F/A-18C Hornet exploded aboard the carrier John C. Stennis about 100 miles off Southern California on Wednesday injuring ten people. The pilot of the F/A-18 was not hurt, however four sailors are listed in stable condition after being airlifted to Naval Medical Center San Diego according to the Navy said, reports the LA Times. Other injured sailors were treated aboard the ship by medical personnel.
The accident occurred as the jet was preparing for launch and sailors were on the flight deck as part of a routine training mission. According to the Navy, the fire was extinguished quickly before it spread, however damage to the jet is estimated at more than $1 million. The incident is being investigated by the Navy.