The B-52 Stratofortress fell shortly after takeoff from Edwards Air Force Base in California, killing the crew onboard; eight crew members died. Officials report the aircraft was conducting a local test sortie tied to a radar modernization program; investigators are assessing potential causes. Emergency crews responded as the airfield was secured and the incident remains under investigation. Sources say eight people died in the incident at a Southern California base; authorities are continuing investigations without immediate disclosures.