Topline
Two U.S. Army helicopters crashed in south western Kentucky on Wednesday night, according to an official statement, with local media reporting multiple deaths from the incident.
Key Facts
In a statement issued on Facebook, U.S. Army base Fort Campbell said the accident occurred in Trigg County at around 10 pm local time while the two HH-60 Blackhawk helicopters were flying a routine training mission.
The status of the crew members on board is unknown, the statement said without mentioning how many people were onboard the two choppers.
The cause of the crashes is still being investigated, but witnesses told local radio station WKDZ they believe the two helicopters had a collision.
The radio station also cited a U.S. Army soldier at the scene who confirmed “multiple deaths.”
According to local ABC News affiliate WKRN, Kentucky State Police, Kentucky Emergency Management and other local officials are present at the crash site and have set up a roadblock.
The Blackhawks involved in the incident belonged to the 101st Airborne Division, widely known as the “Screaming Eagles.”
Crucial Quote
In a statement issued 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…Please pray for all those affected.”
This is a developing story.