A United States military aircraft crashed near Rimrock Lake, causing a fiery scene witnessed by onlookers. The pilot ejected from the jet moments before the crash, with thick black smoke rising above the forest area. A woman filming the incident initially mistook the pilot for a parachutist before realizing he had ejected from the aircraft.
Naches Fire dispatched crews to the site of the downed military plane, which ignited a wildfire. Helicopters and U.S. Forest Service units are currently working to suppress the fire. The incident involved a F/A-18 Hornet aircraft from Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in California, described as a “non-fatal aviation mishap” during routine training.
Due to the fire, campers in the area were evacuated, and people were advised to avoid the vicinity. Naches Fire confirmed the closure of the 1200 Rd system on the south side of Rimrock, with ongoing evacuations. The pilot safely ejected and has been taken to the hospital for evaluation.
Rimrock Lake, located in Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest, is a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, including campers, hikers, and fishing enthusiasts. Emergency crews are managing the wildfire near the Pacific Crest Trail, just east of White Pass.