Two Army soldiers killed in Apache helicopter crash near Salado, Texas
An Army AH-64 Apache helicopter crashed in Salado, Texas, killing two soldiers and sparking a wildfire, authorities said.
Two soldiers from Fort Hood were killed when an Army AH-64 Apache attack helicopter went down in a field near Salado, Texas, about 50 miles north of Austin, officials said. The crash occurred around 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, prompting a response from local emergency services, military personnel and law-enforcement agencies. The Bell County Sheriff’s Office reported that the aircraft impacted the ground violently and ignited a large fire that quickly spread across the surrounding area, leading to evacuations of nearby residents. No structures were damaged and no other injuries were reported. The victims were taken to Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center; their names will be released after 24 hours following notification of next of kin. The criminal investigation division of Fort Hood is leading the inquiry into the incident. > "Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families, friends, and fellow Troopers of those involved during this difficult time," Brig. Gen. Ethan Diven, acting commanding general of the 1st Cavalry Division, said in a statement.