2 killed after Apache helicopter from Fort Hood crashes in Salado, Texas

Two individuals lost their lives when a U.S. Army Apache helicopter from Fort Hood plummeted to the ground in Salado, Texas, on Wednesday, according to local authorities. The two passengers, who were aboard the aircraft, were pronounced dead at the crash site around 2:30 p.m. local time, stated Bill Coleman, a spokesperson for the Bell County Sheriff's Office.

Coleman described the crash as violent, noting that the helicopter struck a field and did not hit any homes or other structures. Brig. Gen. Ethan Diven, the acting commanding general of Fort Hood, confirmed the helicopter's origin. The Army has not released further information at this time. Our primary focus is on securing the area and aiding the initial response efforts, emphasized Diven.

Our sympathies are extended to the crew and their families as we await additional details. The cause of the crash and the identities of the victims have not been disclosed. The incident also ignited a wildfire, which remains uncontrolled as of approximately 3:30 p.m. local time. Fort Hood, located near Killeen, Texas, is situated slightly northwest of Salado and approximately 70 miles north of Austin.