Victims ID'd in B-52 bomber crash that killed 8 at Edwards Air Force Base

Edwards Air Force Base released the identities of eight people killed in Monday's B-52 crash, including military personnel, Boeing employees, and government civilians. The deceased are Lt. Col. Gabriel Estrella, 40; Maj. Alexander Davis, 34; Maj. Robert Dee, 40; Maj. Brad Hovey, 35; Jeromy Smith, 32; Christopher Rischar, 41; Miles Middleton, 50 (retired), and Col. Gregory Watson, 53. They were part of a Combined Test Force conducting radar modernization tests when the aircraft crashed on the runway after takeoff, leaving a large burn mark and smoke plume in view for miles. Investigators will review takeoff performance and maintenance records, with the full inquiry expected to take months.

The base will remain closed at least through Thursday, with flight testing set to resume early next week. The Radar Modernization Program is designed to upgrade B-52 bombers for operations into the 2050s, underscoring the fleet's significant payload and range capabilities while age raises risk concerns. Officials emphasized the importance of supporting families and the Edwards community as the investigation proceeds.