U.S. Fighter Jet Crashes In Libya, Crew Ejects Safely

A U.S. military fighter jet crashed in Libya overnight after an apparent equipment malfunction, but its two crew members ejected safely and have been recovered, the U.S. military said Tuesday.

Both crew members used parachutes to eject from their F-15E Strike Eagle jet at high altitudes and sustained minor injuries, Vince Crawley, a spokesman for the Africa Command, told The Associated Press.

The airmen were separated because they ended up in different areas, he said, adding that the crash was likely caused by mechanical failure and not hostile fire. NBC’s Jim Miklaszewski reported one crew member was recovered quickly, but bringing the second to safety took time. It’s believed the location of the crash–in rebel-held territory in Libya–was fortunate, presenting far less threat to the downed American crew.

Watch the story here, from NBC News:

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