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Navy jet crash could create health problems for Virginia Beach residents

Posted at 7:44 AM, Apr 09, 2012
and last updated 2012-04-09 14:07:53-04

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WTVR) –The Navy is sifting through all of the damage that was left behind from Friday’s jet crash in Virginia Beach.  With the immediate crisis avoided, some residents and workers surrounding the crash site are now concerned there could be lingering health effects.

Following the crash, tons of debris remains on the ground throughout the neighborhood where the jet went down.  Some of the health hazards reportedly associated with the collision includes possible exposure to toxic and cancer-causing chemicals due to the leakage of jet fuel.  The elements are known to irritate the lungs and linings of the mouth and throat.

Some of those living around the crash zone are being encouraged to stay away from the severely damaged buildings, because some of the jet debris is made from carbon fibers and can also irritate the skin, eyes and lungs.

Engineers have already returned to the site, to go over every inch of the wreckage in order to get a better understanding of what went wrong last week.

“That there were no deaths at this point that we know of is absolutely miraculous,” said commanding officer at NAS Oceana Captain Bob Geis.  “I have no other explanation other than it was simply divine intervention.”

Officials with the Virginia Beach Fire Department reportedly said the dangers associated with the crash were all contained to the immediate crash site, and crews are continuing to work to clean everything up.