Texas: Two US Army soldiers were killed after an AH-64 Apache attack helicopter crashed into a field in Central Texas on Wednesday and caught fire, officials said.
The helicopter, which was based at Fort Hood, went down near Salado in Bell County, around 50 to 60 miles north of Austin. The crash happened at about 1:30 pm local time, according to local authorities.
The aircraft came down in a rural field and the impact sparked a large grass fire. Emergency crews rushed to the scene after multiple 911 calls reported the crash and a rapidly spreading fire. Several local fire departments were involved in efforts to bring the blaze under control.
The US Army confirmed that both soldiers aboard the helicopter died in the crash. There were no reports of other injuries. The remains of the two service members were taken to Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center at Fort Hood. Their identities were initially withheld while officials worked to notify their families.
The AH-64E Apache is a US Army attack helicopter used for a range of military operations and training missions. Officials said the aircraft was carrying out a routine training flight when it crashed. The exact circumstances leading to the accident have not yet been established.
The crash also created a significant fire hazard in the surrounding area. Emergency responders worked for hours to contain the flames, while authorities advised people to stay away from the crash site. Some nearby residents were temporarily evacuated as a precaution, according to reports.
Fort Hood personnel and local first responders remained at the scene following the crash. Investigators from the Army are expected to examine the wreckage and other evidence to determine what caused the helicopter to go down.
The identities of the two soldiers are expected to be released after their families have been formally notified. Army officials have expressed condolences to their relatives and colleagues.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott also acknowledged the deaths and offered condolences to the families of the service members, thanking them for their service and sacrifice.
The fatal incident comes amid continued efforts by military authorities to maintain aviation safety during training operations. The investigation is now underway, and officials have not indicated whether mechanical failure, weather, pilot error or any other factor played a role in the crash.
authorities are focusing on securing the crash site, supporting the families of the two soldiers and determining exactly what happened before the Apache slammed into the field.
