All nine soldiers aboard two United States (US) Blackhawk helicopters were killed after both aircraft crashed, officials confirmed. US Army Fort Campbell, home of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault), confirmed the incident unfolded at 10pm on March 29, 2023, in Trigg County, Kentucky. According to officials, the two HH60 Blackhawk helicopters were on a routine training mission at the time of the crash.
“Nine soldiers died in the crash. The command is currently focused on caring for the service members and their families,” a statement from Fort Campbell read.
TRIGG COUNTY #BREAKINGNEWS: Fort Campbell confirms two Blackhawk helicopters crashed around 10pm last night during a routine training mission. They are a part of the 101st Airborne Division. The status of crew members is unknown right now. @WSMV
— Ryan Breslin (@RyBrez) March 30, 2023
Earlier on Friday the Governor of Kentucky, Andy Beshear, said that he expected the crash to result in a number of “fatalities”. “We’ve got some tough news out of Fort Campbell, with early reports of a helicopter crash and fatalities are expected,” Governo Beshear wrote. US Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell also tweeted: “I am devastated to learn about the Army helicopter accident over Kentucky involving our brave 101st Airborne.”
On February 15, 2023, a Black Hawk helicopter from the Tennesse National Guard crashed near an Alabama highway killing the two service personnel onboard. Fort Campbell advised that more information will be released as it becomes available. The incident is under investigation.