The pilot killed in an F-16 crash in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is being identified as Capt. Durwood Jones, of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Jones, 37, leaves behind a wife and two children.
According to the release, the pilot was on a training mission when he crashed in Michigan’s Hiawatha Forest.
Col. Bart Van Roo, 115th Fighter Wing commander, wrote in a statement late Thursday afternoon, “We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss, and our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time… Today is a day for mourning, and the 115th Fighter Wing along with the entire Wisconsin National Guard stands with the pilot’s family as we grieve the loss of a great Airman, and patriot.
He added, “We are an extremely close knit group at the fighter wing, and the loss of one of our own brings immeasurable sadness to every member of our organization.”
Col. Bart Van Roo says the investigation is ongoing and says it could take up to a year to be fully completed.