Two individuals died Wednesday when an Army AH-64 Apache attack helicopter based at Fort Hood crashed in a field near Salado, Texas. The violent crash, which occurred around 1:34 p.m. in Bell County, also ignited a wildfire that led to road closures and resident evacuations.
The Bell County Sheriff’s Office confirmed the crash and fatalities. The helicopter went down in a field south of Salado, approximately 30 minutes from Fort Hood. Local emergency services, military responders, and law enforcement were dispatched to the scene.
Fort Hood confirmed the aircraft was an Apache attack helicopter stationed at the base. The identities of the two deceased crew members have not yet been released. Brig. Gen. Ethan Diven, acting commanding general, stated that securing the site and supporting response efforts were the immediate priorities, and extended thoughts to the crew and their families.
The wildfire sparked by the crash remained uncontrolled as of Wednesday afternoon, leading to evacuations for some residents. Farm to Market Road 2843 was shut down near the crash site, with the Salado Fire/Bell County ESD #1 warning the public to avoid the area to allow clear passage for emergency vehicles.
Fort Hood is overseeing the investigation into the cause of the crash, which has not yet been determined. Information is still being gathered as the situation is ongoing.