A military helicopter crash in central Texas has killed two people, officials have confirmed.
The two victims were pronounced dead at the scene after police responded to an emergency call reporting wreckage in fields south of the village of Salado.
The aircraft was an AH-64 Apache attack helicopter based at nearby Fort Hood, one of the US Army’s major military installations. When officers arrived, they found the crashed helicopter and a large fire that was “getting out of control very quickly”, Bell County Sheriff’s Office spokesman Cliff Coleman said.
The US Army said an investigation into the crash was under way, while emergency response teams were working at the scene. “Our immediate priority is securing the site and supporting the initial response efforts,” said Brig Gen Ethan Diven, acting commanding general of the 1st Cavalry Division.
“Our thoughts are with the crew and their families as we await further information.”
What We Know About the Crash
Authorities are yet to disclose what caused the helicopter to crash. The crash happened near Fort Hood, where the AH-64 Apache was based. The military helicopter went down south of Salado, prompting a significant emergency response because of the resulting fire.
Officials are expected to provide more information as investigators examine the crash site. Also establishing what happened before the aircraft went down.
According to the US Army, the aircraft can conduct armed reconnaissance, close combat, mobile strikes and vertical manoeuvre operations.
Two Service Members Were on Board
The Apache is operated by two service members. The pilot sits in the rear cockpit, while the co-pilot gunner occupies the front position. The US Army has not released further details about the crew members who died in the crash.
Military officials have expressed their condolences to the victims’ families as the investigation continues. The incident comes as the Army works to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash. This includes whether mechanical failure, weather conditions, human factors or another issue contributed to the accident.
Further updates are expected as investigators secure the site and gather evidence.
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