Two Soldiers Killed as Apache Helicopter Crashes in Texas

Two US Army soldiers died after an AH-64 Apache helicopter crashed near Salado, Texas. The aircraft went down in a field away from homes and other structures on Wednesday.

Emergency crews found both victims at the crash site and pronounced them dead around 2:30 p.m. local time. The helicopter belonged to Fort Hood, near Killeen, about 70 miles north of Austin.

The impact ignited a large grass fire. Firefighters battled the flames while authorities closed roads and evacuated some nearby residents. The fire remained out of control for a period during the afternoon response.

Brigadier General Ethan Diven, the installation’s acting commanding general, confirmed the aircraft’s connection to Fort Hood. He said the immediate priority was securing the site and supporting the initial response efforts.

Authorities have not identified the soldiers. The Army said it will release their names after notifying their families. Investigators have not determined the cause of the crash.

The AH-64 Apache serves as the Army’s primary attack helicopter. It is designed for a two-person crew and carries advanced sensors and heavy weapons.

Salado Fire and Bell County ESD No. 1 described the incident as a major grass fire along Farm to Market Road 2843. The road was closed near the crash site as emergency personnel worked in the area.

Officials urged motorists to use alternate routes. The Army is tasked with securing the wreckage and supporting the investigation while fire crews continue their work.

Crash sites involving military aircraft require careful preservation of evidence. Investigators will examine the wreckage to reconstruct the aircraft’s final moments and identify any mechanical or operational factors.

At the time of the latest updates, Fort Hood described the situation as ongoing and said additional information would be provided when available. The focus remains on the cause of the crash and support for the families of the two soldiers.

The combination of the fatal crash and the resulting wildfire created a dual emergency response in the rural area. Local and military authorities coordinated the initial containment and recovery efforts.