'aircraft mishap' causes fire at San Diego Marine base

An “aircraft mishap” at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego triggered heavy smoke pouring from the base on Friday, according to Marine officials. Smoke was first spotted around 10 a.m., and responders were dispatched to an F-35 incident on the flight line. A Marine Corps spokesperson, Capt. Steven Keenan, said the pilot ejected and was recovered. The aircraft involved was assigned to 3rd Marine Air Wing and Marine Air Group 11. Video from a news helicopter showed thick smoke and what appeared to be a burned aircraft near the installation. The fire was reported in an area east of the runways. Officials said they are investigating the circumstances, and the incident is described as developing. The event comes nearly 18 months after an EA-18G Growler crash into San Diego Bay during landing attempts, where both pilots ejected and were rescued.