Full Notification

The United States Marine Corps (USMC) continues to investigate this morning's Little Barnwell Island—Grays Hill area—military plane crash, in which the pilot safely ejected. The pilot was rescued by emergency services personnel and then transported to a medical facility to be evaluated for injuries. There were no other injuries reported as a direct result of the plane crash. 

The Sheriff's Office, the City of Beaufort Police Department, the City of Beaufort/Town of Port Royal Fire Department, the Burton, Sheldon and Lady's Island-St. Helena fire districts, Beaufort County Emergency Medical Services, Beaufort Water Search and Rescue and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources responded to assist the USMC in the rescue of the pilot and to support their investigative efforts.  

Support operations are expected to continue for several days, as the USMC investigates the plane crash. Residents and guests are asked to avoid the area of Little Barnwell Island, until the area is deemed safe. The Grays Hill Boat Landing is currently closed to facilitate support operations.

Media inquiries regarding the crash and the condition of the pilot should be referred to USMC Major Jordan Cochran 910-650-2346 or [email protected]. Please see the attached USMC media release for more information. 

Thank you for your partnership and continued commitment to the safety of our community.