A US military helicopter crashed near the southern border, resulting in the tragic loss of two National Guard soldiers and a US Border Patrol agent. The incident occurred during routine aviation operations near Rio Grande City, Texas, with another soldier sustaining injuries. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation.
The UH-72 Lakota helicopter was assigned to the federal Southwest border support mission when it crashed in an open field, according to Starr County Judge Eloy Vera.
Authorities rushed a critically injured person to McAllen Medical Center in Texas. County officials are awaiting the arrival of federal authorities to commence the investigation.
President Joe Biden expressed his deepest condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and the Border Patrol agent, acknowledging their commitment to protecting the nation. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas praised the deceased Border Patrol agent, Chris Luna, as a heroic public servant.
The New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association mourned Chief Warrant Officer 2 John Grassia, emphasizing his dedication to serving and protecting citizens.
Rensselaer, New York, Mayor Mike Stammel honored Chief Warrant Officer 2 Casey Frankoski, highlighting her contributions to the community and her family’s tradition of public service.
The tragic incident has prompted mourning and scrutiny into the circumstances surrounding the crash. The community mourns the loss of these servicemen while awaiting the results of the investigation to determine the cause of the helicopter crash.
