Six hospitalized after toxic chemical released from military plane crash

By Tina Sawyer

Published September 19, 2026 at 5:30 AM EDT

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A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft flies in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility in this file photo from Sept. 5, 2026. The Texas Military Department said an F-16 crash landed near Interlochen Thursday while conducting routine training exercises. The pilot was able to safely eject from the plane and discharge his parachute. Officials said the pilot is in stable condition and no other injuries have been reported.

An F-16 fighter jet with the Texas Air National Guard crash landed in a field near Interlochen Thursday afternoon.

An evacuation order was temporarily issued for people living within a one-mile radius of the crash site due to hazardous chemicals being released from the aircraft.

The pilot is in stable condition at a local hospital, but Munson Healthcare told WCMU that over 30 people were treated after being exposed to a toxin released from the plane. Six people were admitted to the hospital.

WCMU News Director Rick Brewer spoke with Tina Sawyer about the latest developments.

Also on the show, a rundown of this week's top headlines.

Reporting on this episode comes from WCMU's Rick Brewer, AJ Jones, Emma George-Griffin, Blace Carpenter, MPRN's Russ McNamara and WMUK's Michael Symonds. Interlochen Public Radio's Astrid Code also contributed reporting to this episode.

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This podcast is produced in part by the members of NABET Local 412. This episode of Between the Lakes was edited and mixed by Rick Brewer. Our theme music comes from Gabe Schall. Mike Horace is our executive producer.