(TJV NEWS) Iranian authorities and civilians have launched a widespread manhunt for a missing American pilot after a U.S. fighter jet was shot down, with state-linked media reportedly offering a cash reward for his capture, according to a report by The Sun.

The dramatic incident unfolded after a U.S. F-15 fighter jet was brought down over Iranian territory amid escalating conflict between the two nations. Both crew members ejected from the aircraft, but while one was successfully rescued in a high-risk U.S. operation, the second pilot remains unaccounted for, The Sun reports.

Iranian media outlets have urged civilians to assist in locating the missing airman, describing him as a “precious prize” and offering an estimated $60,000 reward for his capture. Footage circulating online reportedly shows armed individuals combing mountainous terrain in search of the pilot, highlighting the intensity of the hunt, according to The Sun.

The U.S. military has responded by deploying elite rescue teams, including specialized Air Force units trained for combat search-and-rescue missions in hostile environments. These teams are operating under dangerous conditions, with reports of incoming fire during recovery efforts, The Sun noted.

The situation underscores a sharp escalation in the ongoing conflict, as both sides race to locate the missing serviceman. Iran’s involvement of civilians and public bounty offer adds a volatile dimension to the search, while U.S. forces continue urgent efforts to recover their pilot before he is captured.

The fate of the missing airman remains unclear as the high-stakes search continues.