In a tragic turn of events in Flagstaff, Arizona, a police helicopter crash claimed the lives of a pilot and a trooper-paramedic late Wednesday night. The helicopter was responding to an active shooter situation, according to officials.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety’s Ranger helicopter was deployed to provide tactical air support to the Flagstaff Police Department and other law enforcement agencies at the scene, explained Sgt. Kameron Lee, spokesperson for the AZDPS. Unfortunately, the helicopter went down during the operation.
As of now, the names of the deceased pilot and paramedic have not been disclosed to the public.
Meanwhile, on the ground, officers engaged in gunfire with the shooting suspect before the helicopter crash occurred.
The suspect, who was injured in the exchange, was apprehended by the authorities on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, in Flagstaff, Arizona. Details surrounding the shooting and the suspect’s identity are still under wraps as the investigation continues.
The suspect was wounded but survived, and he was taken into custody. Authorities have yet to release his identity or provide details about the circumstances of the shooting.
AZDPS said it will continue to investigate both the shooting incident and the helicopter crash. (FOX10 Phoenix KSAZ)
No additional injuries were reported from the shooting scene.
AZDPS said its Major Incident Division will lead the investigation into the officer-involved shooting.
Officials have yet to release the identities of the suspect and the two AZDPS members on board the helicopter. (FOX10 Phoenix KSAZ)
Meanwhile, the agency said it will also work jointly with the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board to investigate the helicopter crash.
No further details were immediately available.
