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Blue Angels Crash Site Remains Closed Sunday.
Sunday
Saturday, Apr 21, 2007 - 08:47 PM Updated: 05:58 PM
Debris from the plane. Picture courtesy: Fred Yelinek
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Save This PageSunday morning officials in Beaufort tell NEWS 3, they have decided to keep the Turner Oak neighborhood closed until at least Monday. You will have to show photo Identification or other proof of residency to get access to the area.
The plane crashed near Burton Wells and Pine Grove Road around 4pm. It happened three miles outside the airport complex in the final minutes of the Blue Angels routine. They were performing during the 2007 Beaufort Air Show at Marine Air Station Beaufort which is about 45 miles northeast of Savannah. The jet crashed about six miles away from the air show on the other side of Highway 21.
So far, eight people are reportedly injured and the extent of their injuries is unknown.
The name of the pilot, who has died, and the plane number are being released at 4:00 pm Sunday.
Portions of the plane are scattered all over the neighborhood. Debris and trees fell on some homes and cars. The neighborhood will be closed all evening. Officials advise residents to not touch any parts on the ground because they are working to re-construct the crash. If you see anything, call Beaufort County Emergency Management at 843-470-3077.
Beaufort County Coroner Curt Copeland describes the scene as horrific.
The air show will continue Sunday WITHOUT the Blue Angels.
The number 2 Blue Angels pilot, Lt. Commander Anthony Walley, says the victim was a great officer and a great friend.
A man who lives near the crash site, John Sauls, says the planes were banking back and forth before one disappeared and a plume of smoke shot up. Our media partner The Island Packet has a picture of the smoke. Click this link to go the page.
