A tragic incident occurred when a Fort Hood AH-64 Apache attack helicopter crashed in Central Texas, resulting in the deaths of two individuals and sparking a wildfire that prompted evacuations. The Bell County Sheriff’s Office reported receiving the crash alert at approximately 1:34 p.m.
The helicopter came down in a field just south of Salado, about 30 minutes from Fort Hood. The crash site was identified as being off Dove Hollow Lane, according to KWTX.
A firefighting helicopter responds to a wildfire sparked by the military helicopter crash near Salado, Texas.
Cliff Coleman, a spokesman for the Bell County Sheriff’s Office, described the crash as violent and confirmed the fatalities. He noted no additional injuries. Initially, Coleman indicated that the aircraft was believed to be from Fort Hood, pending confirmation from military officials.
Later, Fort Hood confirmed the helicopter was an AH-64 Apache attack helicopter stationed at the installation. The identities of those killed have not yet been released.
Local emergency services, military responders, and law enforcement teams were actively responding to the situation, according to a statement from Fort Hood. Brig. Gen. Ethan Diven, acting commanding general, stated that the immediate priority was securing the site and supporting response efforts.
Our thoughts are with the crew and their families as we await further information.
The event led to a wildfire, which resulted in a significant emergency response, road closures, and evacuations. Coleman mentioned that as of 4 p.m. Eastern Time, the fire was uncontrolled, and some residents had been evacuated. Reports from KWTX indicated that Farm to Market Road 2843 was closed near the crash area.
A police vehicle sits near a burned field after the crash of a military helicopter south of Salado, Texas.
Salado Fire/Bell County Emergency Services District No. 1 announced their crew’s engagement with a major grass fire along FM 2843 and advised the public to avoid the roadway to ensure clear passage for emergency personnel.
Fort Hood is leading the crash investigation, though the cause is not yet released.
In a show of support, Abhiram Garapati, a Republican congressional candidate in Texas, extended prayers to those impacted by the crash and the subsequent wildfire. He expressed these sentiments on Facebook, highlighting concern for the crew, first responders, and affected individuals.
This situation remains ongoing. Future updates will provide further information on this developing story.