5 Marines killed in helicopter crash near San Diego

Five Marines who were aboard a helicopter that crashed in the mountains outside of San Diego during a storm are confirmed dead, U.S. military officials announced Thursday.

The CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter went off course Tuesday night as it was returning to Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego following a training at Creech Air Force Base near Las Vegas.

“It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that I share the loss of five outstanding Marines from 3d Marine Aircraft Wing and the ‘Flying Tigers,’” said Maj. Gen. Michael J. Borgschulte, commander of 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, in a statement.

The names of the Marines were not immediately released. Efforts to recover their remains and an investigation into the crash are underway.

President Joe Biden said in a statement he was “heartbroken” by the news of the deaths.

“We extend our deepest condolences to their families, their squadron, and the U.S. Marine Corps as we grieve the loss of five of our nation’s finest warriors,” Biden said.

Rep. Darrell Issa (R-Calif) posted on X, “A terrible loss for our community. Please keep these Marines, their families, and loved ones in your thoughts today.”