FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — A tragic helicopter crash involving the Arizona Department of Public Safety claimed the lives of a pilot and a trooper who were responding to a violent shootout between police and a suspect firing from rooftops, officials reported on Thursday.
According to Flagstaff Police Chief Sean Connolly, the incident began around 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday when officers answered a call concerning domestic violence. This detail was shared during a news briefing.
The suspect, wielding a “semiautomatic long rifle,” engaged officers and the victim in a prolonged gunfight. The shootout, which lasted nearly two hours, saw the suspect moving from rooftop to rooftop, firing at law enforcement, Connolly explained.
Authorities managed to apprehend the suspect by approximately 10:20 p.m., coinciding with the timing of the helicopter’s crash, Connolly added. However, he did not provide specifics regarding the cause of the crash.
The helicopter played a crucial role in the operation by offering officers on the ground an aerial perspective of the unfolding situation, Connolly noted.
The suspect, who sustained non-life-threatening gunshot injuries, is currently receiving medical care at Flagstaff Medical Center, authorities confirmed.
No one else was injured. The names of the pilot and trooper, who was also a paramedic, were not released.
“Our city and our state have experienced a significant loss. We are part of this community,” Connolly said. “This neighborhood was under siege last night.”
The Bell 407 helicopter that was built in 2004 crashed on Flagstaff’s west side, a few miles from Route 66 and in the view of a neighborhood. There was a fire afterward, according to the Federal Aviation Administration and a search of the helicopter’s registration.
Earlier in the night, an emergency alert went out to mobile phones warning of an active shooter and urging people to stay clear of the area. Still, people gathered outside of a gas station watching as dozens of police vehicles lined the streets.
The FAA said it would assist the National Transportation Safety Board in the crash investigation. An email seeking information was sent to the NTSB early Thursday.
The state Department of Public Safety’s Air Rescue Unit is trained for various high-risk situations, including mountain and water rescues.
Flagstaff Mayor Becky Daggett and members of Arizona’s congressional delegation expressed sympathy for the families of the pilot and trooper.
“Tragic news. Please pray for their families and everyone involved,” said U.S. Rep. Eli Crane, whose district includes Flagstaff.
“Heartbreaking news out of northern Arizona this morning, and a grim reminder of the dangers law enforcement face,” U.S. Rep. Greg Stanton wrote. “Praying for these officers’ loved ones and the entire Arizona Department of Public Safety.”
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