Five Marines confirmed dead after California helicopter crash

• The helicopter was located Wednesday morning in Pine Valley, Calif., — about 50 miles from the air station in San Diego. Authorities said search and rescue operations were underway to locate the five Marines on board.

State of play: "It is with a heavy heart and profound sadness that I share the loss of five outstanding Marines," Maj. Gen. Michael J. Borgschulte, commander of 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, said in a statement on X, formerly Twitter, Thursday.

• The names of the deceased Marines were not released.
• The press release noted that efforts to recover the Marines' remains have begun and an investigation is underway.
• "These pilots and crewmembers were serving a calling greater than self and were proud to do so. We will forever be grateful for their call to duty and selfless service," Borgschulte added.