C-130 Airplane Crash Near Black Hills, South Dakota

On July 2, 2012, a North Carolina National Guard C-130 airplane, crashed near the Black Hills of South Dakota. Although there have been past issues with the C-130 and with the Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System, this is the first time a C-130 has crashed while fighting a fire using that system. The plane made at least two drops of fire retardant onto the White Draw fire near Edgemont on Sunday before crashing around 7:00 Central Standard Time that night.

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While the N.C. National Guard declined to identify those who died or were injured, it is known that Joe McCormick of Belmont tragically died, and other crew members were being treated for serious injuries at a hospital in Rapid City, S.D.

Officials are investigating what caused the crash and seven other C-130 airplanes were grounded because of the crash, which may indicate that investigators are concerned about a possible mechanical or design failure with the C-130 and/or the Modular Airborne Fire Fighting System.

Kreindler has handled matters involving the C-130 aircraft, and Kreindler partners include ex-military pilots familiar with the C-130 and similar types of military missions.

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