A U.S. AH-64 Apache helicopter is shown in 2025 during a training exercise. An Apache helicopter crashed Wednesday in central Texas, killing the two soldiers on board. File Photo by Thomas Maresca/UPI | License Photo
Aug. 12 (UPI) — An Apache attack helicopter based at Fort Hood crashed into a field in Salado, Texas, on Wednesday afternoon, bursting into flames and killing the two soldiers on board, the U.S. Army said.
“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families, friends and fellow troopers of those involved during this incredibly difficult time,” said Brig. Gen. Ethan Diven, 1st Cavalry Division acting commanding general, in a statement.
The crash of the AH-64E Apache helicopter sparked a large, uncontrolled wildfire, said Cliff Coleman, a spokesman for the Bell County Sheriff’s Office. Some evacuation orders for local residents were in effect Wednesday evening.
Not long after the crash, which was less than 20 miles from Fort Hood, the Salado Fire Department and Bell County Emergency Service District 1 were responding to a major grass fire and that the road was impassable in the area. It asked people to avoid the route to make room for emergency vehicles.
Texas A&M Fire Service said about 6:30 p.m. that the fire had covered about 155 acres and about 85% controlled.
A U.S. Army press release said that the deceased soldiers, who have not yet been identified, have been transported to Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center at Fort Hood. Fort Hood personnel remained on scene and were working with first responders.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott offered his condolences to the families of those involved in a social media post.
“Texas is forever indebted to those who serve our state and nation,” Abbott said.
