Authorities have verified that three US marines lost their lives in an aircraft crash on the Tiwi Islands, located north of Darwin, while ongoing efforts to recover the situation persist.
An MV-22B Osprey, carrying twenty-three US personnel, crashed. A spokesperson from the Defense sector noted the occurrence of an "aircraft incident" during the course of Exercise Predators Run, which has been temporarily halted. The exercise involves over 2,500 troops from the US, Australia, Philippines, Timor-Leste, and Indonesia.
The MV-22B Osprey, with twenty-three personnel aboard, crashed on the remote Melville Island, situated 60 km off Darwin's coast. Among those on board, five were transported to Royal Darwin Hospital in a serious condition. The recovery operation is ongoing.
NT Police Commissioner Michael Murphy stated, "Those injured are 23 US Marine Corps [personnel], and we are doing everything we can to return them safely back to Darwin for treatment." He mentioned that five marines have been taken to Darwin for treatment, while the rest are undergoing triage at the crash site. Additional personnel have been dispatched to support operations, tend to the injured, and manage the crash scene on Melville Island as investigations progress.
At present, one individual remains in critical condition, with five others receiving medical care at Royal Darwin Hospital (RDH). NT Chief Minister Natasha Fyles described the incident as "tragic" and affirmed that RDH, the largest hospital in the Northern Territory, has activated a Code Brown emergency alert to manage the situation.
Code Brown is the highest-level emergency response in Australian public hospitals. Ms. Fyles assured that the hospital's capacity, including three operating theaters, can accommodate the influx of casualties.
Commissioner Murphy revealed that a military aircraft was dispatched almost immediately after the crash, and emergency services were promptly informed. The crash occurred around 2 km inland on Melville Island shortly before 9 am.
Local resident Shane Murphy, who witnessed the aftermath of the crash, described a "mushroom of black smoke." He stated that the smoke's color and characteristics were distinct from that of a typical bushfire.
The aircraft was one of two US Osprey departing from Darwin that morning. The Defense spokesperson emphasized that the incident transpired during Exercise Predators Run 2023, which has been suspended. The initial information suggests the involvement of US defense personnel, with no Australian Defense Force members engaged. The primary focus remains on the response to the incident and ensuring the safety of those affected.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese expressed regret about the incident and highlighted the government's dedication to offering support and assistance during this challenging period.