17th September 2023 – (Turin) In a tragic incident, an Italian airforce display jet crashed after colliding with a bird, resulting in the aircraft wreckage striking a car and causing the death of a five-year-old girl. The dramatic event unfolded during the Frecce Tricolore display near Turin, where onlookers captured footage of the MB339 fighter plummeting from the sky.
Resembling the British Red Arrows, the Frecce Tricolore is renowned for its aerobatic prowess. Investigators are currently exploring the theory that the plane encountered a bird strike, leading to a loss of altitude. The video footage showcases the aircraft initially flying in formation with other jets, but then rapidly descending while the remaining jets continue their display routine.
Along the perimeter road, cars can be seen as the pilot’s ejection is captured in a dramatic instant before the plane crashes into the ground, engulfed in a fiery explosion. The shocking incident unfolded in the presence of horrified spectators.
Fortunately, the pilot managed to escape without injuries and was promptly transported to the nearby Giovanni Bosch hospital in Turin. Tragically, the young girl lost her life in the collision, while her brother sustained serious injuries. The parents, although physically unharmed, received medical attention for the emotional shock they experienced.
The Frecce Tricolore display, part of the Italian airforce’s centenary celebration, came to an abrupt halt following the crash. All other participating planes landed safely, and the remainder of the event was promptly cancelled.
Reacting to the devastating occurrence, Italy’s deputy prime minister, Matteo Salvini, expressed his condolences, stating, “Terrible accident in Turin, where a Frecce Tricolori plane crashed during an exercise, killing a five-year-old girl and, according to initial reports, injuring her little brother and parents. Except for the pilot, who jumped out with his parachute at the last moment. A frightening tragedy. A prayer and a hug of closeness.”
Guido Guido Crosetto, the Italian Defence Minister, also extended his deepest condolences for the tragic incident. The crash serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent risks associated with aviation displays and the efforts undertaken to ensure public safety.
As investigations continue, authorities will work diligently to determine the exact cause of the bird strike and evaluate any necessary measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.