In brief
An Arizona Department of Public Safety helicopter crashed during a response to an active shooter incident in Flagstaff, resulting in the deaths of both the pilot and a trooper-paramedic. The investigation is ongoing.
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) — A helicopter from the Arizona Department of Public Safety tragically crashed while responding to assist law enforcement in an active shooter situation on Wednesday night, leading to the deaths of both the pilot and a trooper who served as a paramedic. According to Sgt. Kameron Lee from the Flagstaff Police Department, the helicopter was deployed to support local law enforcement efforts when the incident occurred. Tragically, during the incident, the helicopter crashed, killing both the pilot and the trooper/paramedic on board, Lee stated, without disclosing the names of the deceased. The investigation into the crash is being led by the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board, with the Arizona DPS coordinators actively engaged in gathering more information. The department has a specialized Air Rescue Unit that is trained for high-risk scenarios including mountain and water rescues. In the related shooting incident, the suspect sustained non-fatal gunshot wounds and is currently in custody. Thankfully, no additional injuries were reported in connection with the shooting.
