F-16 from Texas crashes in Michigan, evacuation order issued

Updated on: September 17, 2026 / 5:10 PM EDT / CBS Detroit

An F-16 fighter jet crashed in Grand Traverse County, Michigan, on Thursday, and an evacuation order is in effect along part of County Road 633, the county's emergency management said.

A spokesperson with the 149th Fighter Wing of the Texas National Guard confirmed that the pilot ejected and is in stable condition. They are currently receiving medical treatment. Michigan State Police, which is assisting the Grand Traverse County Sheriff's Office, says no other injuries were reported.

"A 149th Fighter Wing, Texas Air National Guard F-16 Fighting Falcon was on a routine training mission from the Air National Guard's Combat Readiness Training Center, in Alpena, when it experienced an incident earlier this afternoon," the Texas Military Department said in a statement.

Emergency management initially issued a shelter-in-place order covering County Road 633 from Jefferson Place to Blair Townhall Road. Officials had instructed those in the area to stay indoors, close their windows and vents, and follow instructions from emergency personnel.

Now, an evacuation order is in effect within 1 mile of the site. Anyone in that area is urged to evacuate away from the intersection of County Road 633…

Original source: https://www.cbsnews.com/healthwatch/