Two US Army Black Hawk helicopters crashed on a routine training mission in Kentucky on Wednesday night, leaving fatalities expected, according to Governor Andy Beshear.
The incident occurred in Trigg County, and the crew members' status remains unknown as the US Army's Fort Campbell did not release the number of people on board, The Guardian tells us in a report.
Cause of Black Hawk Crash Remains Unknown
Fort Campbell's public affairs office reported in a Facebook post that the crew members were flying two HH-60 Black Hawk helicopters, which belong to the 101st Airborne Division. The cause of the accident is currently under investigation, but the army's command is focused on caring for the service members and their families.
The HH-60 Black Hawk variant is a multi-role helicopter that is mainly used for air assaults and medical evacuations. The army expressed its condolences and is committed to investigating the cause of the crash and supporting the affected families.
Local authorities and emergency services responded to the scene of the crash immediately. Eyewitnesses reported seeing flames and smoke rising from the crash site.
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Authorities from Fort Campbell, Kentucky Emergency Management, and local authorities have been assisting Kentucky State Police at the scene. The area around the crash site now had a roadblock set up.
Black Hawk Crash
The US Army has a long history of using Black Hawk helicopters for various military operations. The HH-60 variant, introduced in the 1980s, has been used extensively in conflicts in Panama, Iraq, Somalia, the Balkans, Afghanistan, and other areas in the Middle East.
According to the US Army Acquisition Support Center, the Black Hawk is a utility tactical transport helicopter that can be modified for various mission requirements, including special operations.
Despite its effectiveness, Black Hawk helicopters have been involved in several accidents over the years. One of the most notable was the 1993 crash in Mogadishu, Somalia, which was portrayed in the movie "Black Hawk Down." Nevertheless, the Black Hawk remains a critical asset for the US Army and is essential for a range of military operations.
The incident in Kentucky serves as a somber reminder of the risks military personnel face while performing their duties. The US Army and local authorities are working together to investigate the cause of the accident and provide support to the affected families.
In a statement on Twitter, Kentucky governor Andy Beshear said:
"We've got some tough news out of Fort Campbell, with early reports of a helicopter crash and fatalities are expected. @kystatepolice, @KentuckyEM and local officials are responding. We will share more information as available. Please pray for all those affected."
The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and more information will be released as it becomes available. The US Army and local authorities will continue to work together to provide support to the families of the service members affected by this tragedy.
Stay posted here at Tech Times for the latest developments.
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