WASHINGTON: All personnel aboard a US military helicopter carrying American service members were killed in a crash in western Iraq, the US Central Command said on Friday.
Central Command did not say how many people were killed in the crash late on Thursday. A US military official told Reuters on Thursday the US HH-60 Pave Hawk helicopter was carrying seven people.
The crash, which did not appear to be the result of enemy activity, is under investigation, the command said in a statement.
“All personnel aboard were killed in the crash,” said Brigadier General Jonathan P. Braga, director of operations of the Combined Joint Task Force. “This tragedy reminds us of the risks our men and women face every day in service of our nations.”
The military said a second accompanying American helicopter immediately reported the crash and Iraqi security forces and coalition members secured the area.
Two US officials, speaking on condition of anonymity and citing initial reports, said on Thursday the aircraft crashed near al-Qaim, a town in Anbar province close to the Syrian border.
The United States says it has about 5,200 troops in Iraq that are part of a coalition fighting Daesh militants.
Moscow, Washington boost military expenditure to reach $109 and $916 billion, respectively
Welsh journalist, presenter leaves BBC after 40 years of service
African-American commentator is not liked by many people but adored by others
Indian Prime Minister accused for hateful comments against Muslims
US President is observing Earth Day with special announcement
US President launches "climate corps" for green jobs