Two people were killed Wednesday when an AH-64 Apache attack helicopter crashed into a field south of Salado, Texas, authorities said. The crash ignited a major grass fire, prompting evacuations, road closures and a large emergency response. The aircraft was based at Fort Hood, and the identities of those killed have not been released. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
Emergency crews, law enforcement officers and military responders converged on the area after the crash was reported at approximately 1:34 p.m. The fire was still uncontrolled at about 4 p.m. local time, according to the Bell County Sheriff’s Office, while officials worked to secure the site and protect nearby residents.
| 1) | Crash kills two near Salado |
| 2) | Apache helicopter identified by Fort Hood |
| 3) | Wildfire leads to evacuations and closures |
| 4) | Military and local agencies secure the scene |
| 5) | Investigation continues as identities remain withheld |
Crash kills two near Salado
The helicopter went down in a field south of Salado, roughly 30 minutes from Fort Hood, on Wednesday, Aug. 12. Bell County authorities received the crash call at approximately 1:34 p.m. The aircraft crashed violently, according to Cliff Coleman, a spokesman for the Bell County Sheriff’s Office.
Two people aboard the helicopter died, while officials said no one else was injured. The crash site was reported near Dove Hollow Lane, and emergency personnel established an active response area as they managed the wreckage and the fire.
Apache helicopter identified by Fort Hood
Authorities initially said the aircraft was believed to be connected to Fort Hood and deferred confirmation to military officials. Fort Hood later identified it as an AH-64 Apache attack helicopter based at the installation.
The identities of the two people killed were not immediately released. Fort Hood described the incident as ongoing and developing, indicating that officials were still gathering information about the flight and the circumstances leading to the crash.
“Our immediate priority is securing the site and supporting the initial response efforts,” said Brigadier General Ethan Diven, acting commanding general of the First Cavalry Division. “Our thoughts are with the crew and their families as we await further information.”
Wildfire leads to evacuations and closures
The crash ignited a major grass fire in the surrounding field. The blaze remained uncontrolled at about 4 p.m., according to local authorities, and some residents were evacuated because of the flames and changing conditions.
Salado Fire and Bell County Emergency Services District No. 1 said crews were battling the fire along Farm to Market Road 2843. The roadway was closed near the crash site and described as impassable in the affected area. Residents and drivers were told to avoid the route, use alternate roads and remain clear of emergency vehicles so firefighters and other responders could reach the scene.
Military and local agencies secure the scene
Local emergency services, law enforcement and military responders worked together at the crash location. Their immediate tasks included controlling the grass fire, protecting nearby communities, closing unsafe roads and securing the aircraft site for investigators.
Officials urged the public not to drive through the affected area or attempt to pass around emergency vehicles. The combined response was necessary because the crash created both a fatal aviation incident and an active wildfire threat in a populated region of Central Texas.
Investigation continues as identities remain withheld
Fort Hood is leading the investigation into the crash, while local agencies continue to support the emergency response. Officials have not released a cause or provided additional details about what happened before the Apache went down.
Texas Republican congressional candidate Abhiram Garapati expressed sympathy for the people aboard the helicopter, first responders and residents affected by the fire. Fort Hood said further information would be released as it becomes available.
| Number | Key Point |
|---|---|
| 1 | Two people died in the AH-64 Apache crash south of Salado. |
| 2 | The crash sparked a major grass fire and prompted evacuations. |
| 3 | Farm to Market Road 2843 was closed near the scene. |
| 4 | Fort Hood is leading the investigation into the cause. |
Summary
The fatal Apache helicopter crash near Salado created a dual emergency involving military aviation, wildfire response and public safety. Officials confirmed two deaths, evacuated some residents and closed a nearby roadway while crews fought the blaze and secured the site. The investigation remains active, and additional information about the crew and cause is pending.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the helicopter crash?
The AH-64 Apache crashed in a field south of Salado, Texas, near Dove Hollow Lane and roughly 30 minutes from Fort Hood.
How many people were killed?
Authorities said two people aboard the helicopter were killed. Their identities had not been released.
What happened after the crash?
The crash started a major grass fire, led to evacuations and closed Farm to Market Road 2843 near the scene. Emergency crews and military responders worked to control the fire and secure the area.
Who is investigating the incident?
Fort Hood is leading the investigation. Officials have not yet released the cause of the crash.
