3 Killed and dozens injured at US air show crash

A World War II-era fighter plane plunged into the edge of the grandstands Friday during a popular air racing show, killing three people, injuring more than 50 spectators. The plane a P-51 Mustang, flown by 74-year-old Jimmy Leeward a veteran Hollywood stunt pilot, spiralled out of control without warning and appeared to disintegrate upon impact.

A horrific scene unfolded as smoking debris was strewn over a large area and people rushed to tend to the victims and ambulances rushed to the scene.

The President of the National Air Races, Mike Houghton spoke about the emergency operation.

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With an investigation into the crash now underway, officials say there are indications that mechanical problems were to blame.

The National Championship Air Races which draws thousands of people to Reno every year in September to watch various military and civilian planes race has now been cancelled until further notice. Listen to Christopher Well's report