Officials with Marine Corps Air Station New River just confirmed that a CH-53E helicopter was forced to make a precautionary emergency landing at approximately 2 p.m.
The reason for the landing is unknown at this time and the incident is currently under investigation. There were no injuries reported as officials confirmed all crew members aboard made it out safely.
JUST IN: Marine helicopter makes emergency landing in Sneads Ferry. https://t.co/FZOJwEp7xw
— WECT News (@wectnews) September 3, 2020
The North Carolina Highway Patrol, Onslow County Sheriff’s Office and Onslow County Emergency Medical Services all responded to the area at the time of the incident.
The North Carolina Highway Patrol had initially confirmed a military helicopter made an emergency landing in a Sneads Ferry field and caught fire.
JUST IN: Investigators say there are no injuries after a military helicopter made a forced landing Thursday in Onslow County. It happened around 3 on a property off Pilchers Branch Road, west of Sneads Ferry.
(Photo courtesy Lillith Mallett) pic.twitter.com/CB7m4z0qcZ— Ken Watling (@KWOnAir) September 3, 2020
Sgt. J. Edwards said he sent several troopers to the scene for where the helicopter landed in the field near Highway 172 and Pilchers Branch Road for security reasons.
Initial reports from Highway Patrol was that the helicopter was having engine problems and landed in the field. Once on the ground, all personnel were able to safely leave the helicopter before it caught fire.
The Daily News has reached out to military officials for further information.
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