Concern Over Police Safety

The US Air Force has confirmed that all eight people aboard the B-52 Stratofortress that crashed at Edwards Air Force Base in California on Monday were killed, the deadliest crash involving the bomber in more than 40 years.

The aircraft went down on a routine test mission shortly after takeoff, at 11:20 a.m. local time. At an afternoon news conference, Col. James Hayes, deputy commander of the 412th Test Wing, told reporters, "We lost eight great Americans." The base had said earlier that initial indications were the crash was not survivable.

Those on board were a mix of uniformed military personnel, government civilians, and contractors supporting the flight. Boeing confirmed two of its employees were among the dead, saying it is in contact with their families and offering support. The names of those lost have not yet been released; officials said they will be made public 24 hours after the families have been notified.

The Air Force confirmed the aircraft was B-52H tail number 60-0061, a jet with a notable place in the bomber's future. In December 2025, it became the first B-52 to receive the new AESA radar as part of the Air Force's modernization program, and it was supporting that radar testing when it crashed. That program is part of a broad effort to keep the B-52 flying into the 2050s.

It is the deadliest B-52 accident since 1982, when nine crew members died near Sacramento, and the first loss of a B-52 since 2016. The cause of Monday's crash is under investigation.

Eight people went to work on a test flight and did not come home. Our thoughts are with their families, their colleagues, and the entire Edwards community.

The Bay County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce that Sheriff Troy Cunningham has been selected by the Police Officers Association of Michigan (POAM) as the Administrator of the Year for 2026.

In his nomination, Sheriff Cunningham was recognized for consistently demonstrating integrity, professionalism, and sense of duty. The nomination noted that he leads by example, holding himself and the department to the highest standards while encouraging innovation and accountability. It also highlighted his efforts to advocate for employees, enhance public safety initiatives, secure funding for critical resources, and strengthen partnerships throughout Bay County.
The nomination went on to note that beyond his professional accomplishments, Sheriff Cunningham is widely respected for his character and commitment to service. His ability to bring people together, address complex issues, and maintain a strong focus on the well-being of the community sets him apart as an outstanding leader in law enforcement. He has proven to be a sheriff who truly serves with dedication and compassion.

Sheriff Cunningham said he is very honored to receive this award from the POAM, but what makes it especially meaningful is that the nomination came from the men and women of his own department.
Sheriff Cunningham has spent more than 30 years with the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, growing in his career alongside many of the people he now has the privilege of leading. He considers serving as Sheriff both an incredible honor and a tremendous responsibility—one that he never takes lightly.

“I am grateful every day for the dedicated professionals who serve this community. This award is a reflection of their hard work, commitment, and support. It is a privilege to work alongside them and to serve the residents of Bay County.”

Please join us in congratulating Sheriff Cunningham on this well-deserved recognition.