New York National Guard helicopter crash kills 3 soldiers
The crash took place about 15 miles south of Rochester
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Three soldiers were killed Wednesday evening when a military helicopter crashed in upstate New York, authorities said.
The UH-60 medical evacuation helicopter, based at the Army Aviation Support Facility at Rochester International Airport, was on a routine training mission when it crashed, according to the state military affairs division.
The soldiers were not immediately identified, WROC-TV of Rochester reported.
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The Monroe County Sheriff's Office said the crash occurred in a farmer’s field in the town of Mendon, about 15 miles south of Rochester, around 6:30 p.m.
Emergency crews "went into life-saving mode," upon arriving at the scene, Monroe County Sheriff Todd Baxter said during a news conference.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}"This is a heavy heavy burden on all of us," Baxter said, according to the station. "We’re waiting for the National Guard for confirmation of who was on board and identification of our great soldiers."
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo released a statement on the crash. He said flags at all state buildings would be lowered to half-staff on Thursday.
"I am devastated by the news tonight of a New York Army National Guard helicopter crash in the Town of Mendon that killed three of New York's bravest during a training mission," Cuomo said.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}"National Guard members are our citizen soldiers who voluntarily serve and protect both here and abroad, and I extend prayers and condolences from all New Yorkers to the family, loved ones, and fellow soldiers of these honorable heroes who we will never forget," he continued.
Roads near the crash would remain closed "through the overnight," with only nearby residents allowed access, authorities said.
No further details were immediately released. The crash remained under investigation, officials said.
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"We ask that you please keep the families and loved ones of the deceased in your thoughts as the investigation into this tragic crash continues," the sheriff's office tweeted early Thursday. "Thank you to all of our 1st responder partners and to those who brought food/drink to the scene."