A U.S. Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey caught fire and made a hard landing during a training flight in Bladen County, North Carolina, on Thursday, Oct. 8. Four Marines were aboard. One was taken to a burn center; the other three were not hurt. The cause is under investigation.
Key facts
- Where: the Bladen Lakes State Forest area, Bladen County, N.C.
- Aircraft: Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey on a training flight.
- Crew: 4 Marines; 1 injured and taken to a burn center, 3 uninjured.
- Fuel: about 6,000 pounds of jet fuel aboard, according to the local fire chief.
- Investigation: NCIS is leading it; the fire is out.
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What happened
The tiltrotor aircraft caught fire and made a hard landing in a wooded area during training. White Lake Fire Chief Dale Brennan said crews struggled to get water and trucks to the remote site. The fire has since been extinguished.
Where the Osprey came from
A Marine Corps spokesperson said the aircraft is based at Marine Corps Air Station New River, near Jacksonville, N.C. Early local reports also mentioned Camp Lejeune, which is next to New River. Four officials from Camp Lejeune were flown in to help investigate.
The Osprey’s safety record
The V-22 Osprey can take off like a helicopter and fly like a plane, and it is used by the Marines, Air Force and Navy. The aircraft has faced scrutiny after several deadly crashes in recent years. Investigators have not said whether this incident is linked to any known mechanical issue.
Frequently asked questions
What happened in Bladen County?
A Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey caught fire and made a hard landing during training on Oct. 8, 2026.
Was anyone hurt?
One of the four Marines aboard was taken to a burn center. The other three were uninjured.
What caused the Osprey fire?
The cause has not been released. NCIS is investigating.
