Rescue Effort Continuing in Navy Helicopter Crash
Navy NewsStand
Story Number: NNS100218-20
Release Date: 2/18/2010 10:38:00 PM
From Commander, Naval Air Force Atlantic Public Affairs
NORFOLK (NNS) -- The wreckage of a U.S. Navy MH-60S "Knighthawk" helicopter has been located in a remote area of West Virginia following a crash Feb. 18.
Rescue personnel have reported several injuries to the 17 crew and passengers aboard but the extent of those injuries is still being determined. No fatalities are being reported.
The helicopter is assigned to Helicopter Sea Combat Support Squadron 26 from Naval Station Norfolk. It was participating in "Operation Southbound Trooper X" at Ft. Pickett, Va., when the crash happened.
Operation Southern Trooper is an annual exercise focusing on the integration of joint U.S. and NATO tactics and procedures as well as inter-service coordination and capabilities.
A West Virginia Army National Guard search and rescue crew flying HH-60 Blackhawk helicopters and a C-130 located the downed aircraft at about 7:15 p.m. Feb. 18 in a rugged, snow-covered area near Lewisburg, W.Va., in Pocahontas County. Medical personnel were lowered to the site to provide assistance for the injured. Other rescue personnel are enroute to the area with additional equipment and supplies.
Those aboard the helicopter included 14 Navy and three National Guard personnel.
The cause of the crash is under investigation.
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