(KSLA) – Colonel Greg Watson, 53, of Haughton, Louisiana, was one of eight victims in a fatal B-52 crash at Edwards Air Force Base, California, on June 15, 2026.
The military aircraft went down shortly after takeoff, resulting in the deaths of all aboard. Authorities confirmed the identities of the victims on Wednesday afternoon.
Other victims included Lt. Col. Gabriel Estrella, Majors Alexander Davis, Robert Dee, Brad Hovey, and Jeromy Smith, as well as Retired Lt. Col. Miles Middleton and flight test engineer Christopher Rischar.
Emergency response teams from the base were deployed immediately. The crash is under investigation by relevant authorities.
In a statement, Air Force Global Strike Command acknowledged the deep loss felt by the community and vowed to support the families affected.
The Town of Haughton expressed condolences and acknowledged its close ties to Barksdale Air Force Base, home to many military families.
Flags at municipal buildings have been lowered to half-staff in memory of the victims. A memorial service for Col. Watson has been scheduled for June 26 at Ashbury United Methodist Church in Bossier City, Louisiana.
Further updates regarding the investigation and community support efforts will be forthcoming.