Service member killed, at least 9 hurt in helicopter training

CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. (WNCN) – A service member was killed and at least nine others were hurt during a training exercise at Camp Lejeune.

According to Marine Corps officials, A CH-53E helicopter belonging to Heavy Helicopter Squadron-464, Marine Aircraft group-29, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing experienced a hard landing while conducting training around 9 p.m. Wednesday.

One person was killed. That service member was airlifted to Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune, where he was pronounced dead.

Marine Corps officials are currently notifying that person’s family members, and are not releasing the identity at this point.

In a statement, a spokesperson says, “our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time.”

Seven other service members were taken to Naval Hospital. Six are set to be released, while one was admitted, but is in stable condition. Three other service members were taken to Onslow Memorial Hospital, and are in stable condition. One final service member was taken to a hospital in Greenville.

There is no word at this time how many of the service members are Marines.

Marine Corps officials say the incident is under investigation.