FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — In a devastating incident that underscored the risks faced by first responders, an Arizona Department of Public Safety helicopter crashed while assisting with an ongoing active shooter situation in Flagstaff on Wednesday night. The crash tragically resulted in the deaths of both the pilot and a trooper who served as a paramedic aboard the aircraft.
According to Sgt. Kameron Lee of the Flagstaff Police Department, the helicopter was part of an emergency response team collaborating with local law enforcement when the unfortunate event occurred. Tragically, during the incident, the helicopter crashed, killing both the pilot and the trooper/paramedic on board, Lee stated.
The identities of the fallen first responders have not yet been disclosed to the public.
In the wake of the incident, authorities have initiated a thorough investigation in collaboration with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Inquiries regarding the crash have been directed to these agencies as details are sought to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
The helicopter belonged to the department's Air Rescue Unit, which is specially trained for high-risk scenarios like mountain and water rescues, showcasing the extraordinary capabilities and responsibilities of such units.
As for the shooting incident that prompted the helicopter's assistance, law enforcement confirmed that the suspect involved sustained non-fatal gunshot wounds and has been taken into custody. Fortunately, there were no additional injuries reported during this harrowing situation.}
According to Sgt. Kameron Lee of the Flagstaff Police Department, the helicopter was part of an emergency response team collaborating with local law enforcement when the unfortunate event occurred. Tragically, during the incident, the helicopter crashed, killing both the pilot and the trooper/paramedic on board, Lee stated.
The identities of the fallen first responders have not yet been disclosed to the public.
In the wake of the incident, authorities have initiated a thorough investigation in collaboration with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Inquiries regarding the crash have been directed to these agencies as details are sought to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
The helicopter belonged to the department's Air Rescue Unit, which is specially trained for high-risk scenarios like mountain and water rescues, showcasing the extraordinary capabilities and responsibilities of such units.
As for the shooting incident that prompted the helicopter's assistance, law enforcement confirmed that the suspect involved sustained non-fatal gunshot wounds and has been taken into custody. Fortunately, there were no additional injuries reported during this harrowing situation.}
