Two individuals died Wednesday when an AH-64 Apache attack helicopter crashed in a field south of Salado, Texas. The incident triggered a wildfire that necessitated evacuations and drew a large emergency response.
Authorities received the call about the crash around 1:34 p.m. local time. The helicopter went down in a field located off Dove Hollow Lane, approximately 30 minutes from Fort Hood. Bell County Sheriff's Office spokesman Cliff Coleman described the crash as violent. No other injuries were reported.
Fort Hood later confirmed that the aircraft was an AH-64 Apache attack helicopter based at the installation. The identities of the deceased have not yet been released. Brig. Gen. Ethan Diven, acting commanding general, stated that the immediate priority was securing the site and supporting initial response efforts.
Wildfire and Evacuations
The crash ignited a significant wildfire, which remained uncontrolled as of 4 p.m. ET. Some residents were evacuated due to the advancing flames. Farm to Market Road 2843 was closed near the crash site. Salado Fire/Bell County ESD #1 reported battling a "major grass fire" along FM 2843 and advised the public to avoid the roadway to allow clear passage for emergency personnel.
Fort Hood is leading the investigation into the cause of the crash, with no details released thus far. The situation was described by Fort Hood as ongoing and developing, with additional information to be provided as it becomes available.
