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2 killed in AZDPS helicopter crash
A tragedy in northern Arizona after a DPS helicopter crashed in Flagstaff, killing two people on board. DPS says the chopper was responding to an officer-involved shooting when it went down. FOX 10's Danielle Miller reports.
FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. - Two Arizona Department of Public Safety crew members were killed in a helicopter crash Wednesday night while responding to an active shooting incident in Flagstaff.
What we know:
The crash happened on Feb. 4 west of the downtown area, just north of Route 66. DPS says the pilot and a trooper/paramedic on board both died.
Prior to the crash, Flagstaff Police were involved in a shooting with a suspect. The suspect was shot before being taken into custody. No officers were hurt.
Dig deeper:
According to the Arizona Fraternal Order of Police, the pilot joined DPS in 2021 and previously served in the United States Marine Corps. The trooper/paramedic joined DPS in 2022 and was a sworn trooper and member of the Arizona Fraternal Order of Police.
"This is a devastating moment for the DPS family, the FOP, and our state’s law enforcement community," said Michael Hunt, President of the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 32. 'Our fallen trooper served with honor and courage, answering the call to protect others. Both the paramedic, and the pilot, a military veteran, made the ultimate sacrifice while supporting the mission. Their loss is profound, and our hearts are with their families, friends, and colleagues."
What we don't know:
The names of the DPS crew members and suspect weren't released. The cause of the helicopter crash is also unknown.
Police haven't released any details on what led up to the shooting.
Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett statement
What they're saying:
"I am so proud of the men and women of the Flagstaff Police Department for their heroic actions last night. Their work to protect our community and detain an active shooter saved many lives.
Tragically, the lives of two Arizona Department of Public Safety officers who were assisting Flagstaff Police ended when their helicopter crashed. I want to express my heartfelt sympathy to the families of these officers, DPS, and the entire law enforcement community for their loss. The City of Flagstaff stands ready to support you."
What's next:
DPS will lead the investigation into the shooting. They will also work with the FAA and NTSB to investigate the helicopter crash.
Map of area where the crash happened
The Source: The Arizona Department of Public Safety and statements from Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett and the Arizona Fraternal Order of Police.