Navy Cmdr. comments on jet crash

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY) - During a press conference Friday, Capt. Mark Weisgerber, Deputy Commander for the Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic said thoughts and prayers go out to the citizens of Virginia Beach, especially those impacted by the crash.

He gave his gratitude for first responders "whose bravery and heroic acts have gone far to help reduce the impact" of the crash.

At this time, the Navy is offering all resources to the City of Virginia Beach to help with the aftermath.

Weisgerber said the F/A-18D jet took off from Naval Air Station Oceana Friday afternoon. Shortly after, initial indications showed the jet suffered "catastrophic mechanical malfunction" which resulted in a forced ejection.

According to Weisgerber, a student pilot was sitting in the front seat of the jet, while an experienced instructor was in the back seat.

The aircraft was lost and it crashed into the apartment complex.

Just before 5:30 p.m, Weisgerber said the crew was doing well and suffered only minor injuries. Both are said to be up and about and coherent. When asked if they were local, Weisgerber said they were and both lived in Virginia Beach.

During the conference, Virginia Beach Fire Chief Hedley Austin said crews were able to get the fire under control in about an hour after impact. Firefighters checked every building during a primary search and will conduct a secondary search after they check the roofing of some buildings.

No fatalities were reported prior to 5:30 p.m.

Austin credited recent emergency practices with the Navy and the Virginia Beach Fire Department for Friday's successful operation. 

Virginia Beach Mayor Will Sessoms said he has never been so proud of the City's emergency crews and Austin added during the conference he felt truly blessed there were no serious injuries.