3 Escape Tanker Crash In Southern California

VENTURA, Calif. (AP) -- An airbase spokesman says a Boeing 707 tanker has crashed on takeoff at Point Mugu Naval Air Station in Ventura County.

Air station spokeswoman Terry Reid says three people were on board when the aircraft went down at 5:25 p.m. Wednesday and all escaped with minor injuries.

Broadcast reports show black smoke and flames pouring from the aircraft.

Reid says the tanker is used for fleet operations support and transporting fuel.

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