An Army Apache helicopter crashed in a central Texas field on Wednesday, killing both people on board and sparking a wildfire that forced several homes to be evacuated, according to the Bell County Sheriff’s office.
Officials from nearby Fort Hood confirmed the AH-64 Apache helicopter went down. Cliff Coleman, spokesman for the Bell County Sheriff’s office, confirmed that both occupants died.
The cause of the crash has not yet been announced. Fort Hood’s criminal investigation division is leading the investigation, Coleman said.
The helicopter did not strike any homes or other structures upon impact. "You could tell it was a violent crash," Coleman stated.
Brig. Gen. Ethan Diven, acting commanding general, said, “Our immediate priority is securing the site and supporting the initial response efforts. Our thoughts are with the crew and their families as we await further information.”