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In a tragic incident on Wednesday night, a police helicopter crashed while responding to an active shooter situation in Flagstaff, Arizona, resulting in the deaths of both the pilot and a trooper-paramedic onboard, officials reported.
The helicopter, part of the Arizona Department of Public Safety’s Ranger unit, was engaged in tactical air support for the Flagstaff Police Department and other law enforcement teams when it went down, according to Sgt. Kameron Lee, a spokesperson for AZDPS.
The identities of the pilot and paramedic have not been disclosed by authorities at this time.
Prior to the helicopter crash, ground officers were involved in an exchange of gunfire with the suspect involved in the shooting.
The injured suspect was apprehended by officers in Flagstaff, Arizona, on Wednesday, February 4, 2026. (FOX10 Phoenix KSAZ)
The suspect was wounded but survived, and he was taken into custody. Authorities have yet to release his identity or provide details about the circumstances of the shooting.
AZDPS said it will continue to investigate both the shooting incident and the helicopter crash. (FOX10 Phoenix KSAZ)
No additional injuries were reported from the shooting scene.
AZDPS said its Major Incident Division will lead the investigation into the officer-involved shooting.
Officials have yet to release the identities of the suspect and the two AZDPS members on board the helicopter. (FOX10 Phoenix KSAZ)
Meanwhile, the agency said it will also work jointly with the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board to investigate the helicopter crash.
No further details were immediately available.