Two soldiers were killed Wednesday when an Army AH-64 Apache crashed into a field near Salado, Texas, igniting a grass fire that forced evacuations and shut down a nearby road.
The Fort Hood-based helicopter went down near Salado, about 50 miles north of Austin. Authorities said the first 911 calls came in around 1:30 p.m.
Fire spreads after crash
The crash sparked a large grass fire. Bell County Sheriff’s spokesperson Cliff Coleman said the flames appeared to be out of control as some residents evacuated and crews closed the road near the scene.
By 7 p.m., crews had contained 85% of the 155-acre fire.
Fort Hood personnel joined local emergency crews and law enforcement at the scene. Salado Fire/Bell County ESD No. 1 urged drivers to stay away from the area while firefighters worked.
Army investigates
The Army said the aircraft was an AH-64 Apache attack helicopter based at Fort Hood.
The Army has not released the soldiers’ names and said it will wait 24 hours after notifying their families.
“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families, friends, and fellow Troopers of those involved during this incredibly difficult time,” Brig. Gen. Ethan Diven, acting commanding general of the 1st Cavalry Division, said in a statement.
Fort Hood’s Criminal Investigation Division is handling the investigation.
Officials have not released the cause of the crash.
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