A major scare unfolded on Sunday at the Gunfighter Skies Air Show held at Mountain Home Air Force Base, when two U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler jets collided mid-air during a performance, triggering a temporary lockdown at the base. According to reports, the incident took place shortly after 12:30 pm local time, when the aircraft were performing an aerial display as part of the air show. Moments after the collision, thick black smoke was seen rising near the crash site, which was located about two miles outside the base.

Emergency teams rushed to the area immediately as the situation escalated. Authorities confirmed that all four crew members on board the two jets successfully ejected before impact. Videos shared on social media appeared to show the aircraft colliding in the air and breaking apart, followed by four parachutes descending safely to the ground.

Officials later stated that emergency responders remained on-site to secure the area and begin a detailed investigation into the cause of the crash. A spokesperson also confirmed that all remaining Sunday events were canceled as a precaution while authorities assessed the situation. The U.S. Navy said that a formal investigation has been launched, with teams reviewing flight data, communication records, and eyewitness footage to determine what led to the accident.

The Mountain Home Air Force Base was placed under lockdown following the incident, and local police also assisted in securing the area. The air show, which had returned this year after an eight-year gap, had drawn thousands of spectators. Organizers had reportedly spent nearly two years preparing for the event, with extensive safety arrangements and technical teams deployed across the base.

The incident has also brought renewed attention to past accidents at the same location. In 2018, a hang glider pilot died during an air show at the base, and in 2003, a U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds jet crashed during a performance, though the pilot survived after ejecting. Authorities have assured that further details will be released as the investigation continues.