The Thunderbirds, of the U.S. Air Force, were headlining the main program of the Gunfighter Skies Air Show at Idaho’s Mountain Home Base.
An event that celebrates the history of aviation and modern air capabilities, but attendees who expected to enjoy a weekend of aerial maneuvers instead encountered an accident that shocked everyone.
Two military aircraft collided midair and plunged to the ground amid columns of black smoke. Videos recorded by spectators showed the shocking moment of the crash, while four parachutes opened in the sky, a sign that the crew members managed to eject seconds before the impact.
The military base closed the facility, suspended the event, and launched an investigation, while emergency crews worked at the scene and police asked the public to avoid approaching the crash area.