Northern Territory Police are responding to a fatal United States military aircraft crash on Melville Island earlier today.

Police received reports of the crash around mid-morning. The incident is related to the international training exercise Predator’s Run 2023.

The information at this time confirms there have been 23 people involved in the crash, with 5 injured marines conveyed to Royal Darwin Hospital in various conditions. Three people have been confirmed deceased.

NT Police are working closely with the Department of Defence, US Marine Corps, members from the Department of Health and Careflight.

Incident Controller Matthew Hollamby APM said “This is a significant incident and the community can rest assured we are working with defence and deploying all resourcing necessary.

“Our thoughts are with the family of the deceased and with all those currently in hospital, we wish them a fast and full recovery.

“I would also like to commend the actions of all the frontline workers deployed to the island and to the hardworking members at Royal Darwin Hospital who are currently treating an influx of patients.”