Claris Law Legal Blogging Community

Editor: James T. Crouse
Profession: Aviation Accident Attorney

Category: Helicopter Crashes

Four people are dead after a military Blackhawk helicopter from Fort Campbell Kentucky crashed near the top of Mount Massive, one of Colorado's highest mountains, on Wednesday.

The helicopter, assigned to the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, was conducting a training exercise when it struck about 400 feet from the top of the 14,200 foot mountain. It is not known why the soldiers were conducting the maneuvers in Colorado nor how long they were training in the region. Workers building trails in the area heard the crash about 2pm, but did not see it.

The 160th soldiers are known as "night stalkers" because they specialize in nighttime operations. The MH-60 Blackhawk is frequently used of overt and covert infiltration missions. It is also used for rescue and medical evocations, carrying supplies to special operations forces. When armed, it is used for armed escort and fire support.

The cause of the crash has not been released.