WARSAW — Tragedy struck in Poland as an F-16 fighter jet crashed during training exercises ahead of the Radom Air Show in Radom. Authorities confirmed that the pilot was killed in the incident.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of shock and disbelief as the aircraft went down, with at least one spectator reportedly left traumatized after witnessing the crash. The air show, one of the largest in Central Europe, draws thousands of visitors each year.

Polish officials have not yet disclosed the cause of the crash but said an investigation is underway. The Ministry of Defense expressed condolences to the pilot’s family and pledged a thorough review of flight safety protocols.

The Radom Air Show was expected to feature aerial displays from multiple countries, but organizers are now reassessing schedules in light of the tragedy.