Defense
At least 8 people were reportedly killed after a KC-130 military refueling tanker crashed about 85 miles north of Jackson, Mississippi, on Monday afternoon.A Marine Corps spokesperson said that the aircraft "experienced a mishap," but provided no details as of Monday evening, according to WZTV. Nine people were believed to be on board the aircraft.
Firefighters were battling flames ignited by jet fuel. Helicopters were also said to be searching the crash site, where debris was scattered for miles.
"We were driven away by several high-intensity explosions," said Greenwood Fire Chief Marcus Banks.
The KC-130's primary duty is to provide aerial refueling for other aircraft and helicopters, and can hold up to 61,364 pounds of fuel.
Here's footage of the wreckage:
Have mercy. Here's footage of the USMC KC-130 crash tonight in Mississippi via KXAN At least 5 confirmed dead. pic.twitter.com/e0RwnJw4NI
- Andrew deGrandpre (@adegrandpre) July 11, 2017