Two soldiers were killed when an AH-64 Apache attack helicopter based at Fort Hood crashed into a field near South Salado, Texas, on Aug. 12. Deputies received reports about 1:34 p.m., and the two crew members were pronounced dead at 2:30 p.m. Responders discovered a nearby wildfire and evacuated several homes; officials said the aircraft did not strike any structures. The Army is investigating, and the names of the deceased are being withheld pending next-of-kin notification.
Two Soldiers Killed After AH-64 Apache Crashes Into Texas Field; Nearby Wildfire Triggers Evacuations
A photo of the helicopter crash site near Salado, TexasCredit: Cliff Coleman/Bell County Sheriff's Office/Handout via REUTERS
Two U.S. Army soldiers were killed when an AH-64 Apache attack helicopter crashed into a field near South Salado, Texas, on Wednesday, Aug. 12, officials said.
Bell County Sheriff’s Office public information officer Cliff Coleman said deputies received reports of the crash at about 1:34 p.m., roughly half a mile west of the 16400 block of Kuykendall Road. The two crew members aboard the aircraft were pronounced dead at 2:30 p.m., Coleman said during a press conference.
The Army confirmed the helicopter was an AH-64 Apache based at Fort Hood, about 30 miles from the crash site. The names of the deceased are being withheld until 24 hours after next of kin have been notified. The service members were transported to Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center.
"You could tell it was a violent crash," Coleman said at the news briefing, adding that the helicopter did not strike any homes or other structures.
Responding deputies also discovered a nearby wildfire that had grown out of control; several neighboring homes were evacuated as a precaution, Coleman said. Local authorities and emergency crews worked to secure the scene and contain the blaze.
A stock photo of a U.S. Army AH-64 Apache helicopterCredit: Getty
The AH-64 Apache is a twin-engine, four-bladed, multi-mission attack helicopter crewed by two service members: a pilot (rear seat) and a co-pilot/gunner (front seat), according to the U.S. Army.
Brig. Gen. Ethan Diven, acting commanding general of the 1st Cavalry Division, expressed condolences in an Army statement: "Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families, friends, and fellow Troopers of those involved during this incredibly difficult time."
Texas Governor Greg Abbott posted on X offering his condolences and asking Texans to keep the fallen soldiers' families and the Fort Hood community in their prayers.
Investigation
The U.S. Army confirmed the aircraft type and the base but did not immediately provide additional details. Military and local authorities are investigating the cause of the crash. Further updates will be released as more information becomes available.
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