Military helicopter makes fiery emergency landing alongside 5 Freeway near Oceanside

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. (KABC) -- The crew of a military helicopter flying out of Camp Pendleton made an emergency landing Friday alongside Interstate 5 north of Oceanside after an engine fire in-flight.

The CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter belonging to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing touched down in an open area west of the freeway and north of Aliso Creek Rest Area on the grounds of the northern San Diego County military base at about 4 p.m.

All four crewmembers were able to get out safely after conducting emergency procedures, according to the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.



The incident led to heavier-than-usual traffic along I-5 in the area, apparently due to motorists slowing to look at the burning helicopter.





City News Service Inc. contributed to this report.