RAF Hawk jet crashes shortly after take-off from RAF Valley, crew eject safely

Witnesses said the Hawk jet climbed steeply after departure from RAF Valley, then stalled and descended, producing two loud bangs and a massive wall of fire. The plane fell roughly a mile inland, likely near the Pencarnisiog region of Anglesey, while the two pilots ejected and landed about halfway between the runway and the impact point. Smoke and flames were visible from the ground, prompting an air-ambulance helicopter to be scrambled.

North Wales Police, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Welsh Ambulance Service University Health Trust and Helimed are on scene, urging residents to avoid the area until the investigation is complete. The Ministry of Defence has not yet released an official statement.