MILITARY TRAGEDY
Two dead in Black Hawk helicopter crash on Alabama highway 53 after chopper slammed into road killing everyone onboard
TWO crew members on board a U.S. military helicopter were killed today when their craft crashed onto an Alabama highway.
Smoke was seen billowing from the UH-60 Black Hawk after it plunged onto Highway 53 this afternoon - leaving "no survivors."
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The aircraft, which belonged to the National Guard, was conducting a training flight near Burwell Road in Huntsville, when it went down.
Madison County Sherriff's Department was scrambled to the scene and later confirmed two crew members onboard were killed.
In a statement tonight, Warner Ross, Tennessee's Adjutant General, said: "We are deeply saddened by the loss of two Tennessee National Guardsman and our prayers are with their families during this heartbreaking tragedy."
One of the two soldiers killed in the crash was identified by officials as Daniel Wadham.
Wadham is survived by his wife Rosetta Wadham and two children.
The Sherriff's department was joined on the scene by Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, which is helping to investigate the crash.
Drivers were also asked to avoid the area as emergency crews worked to clear the scene and determine the cause of the crash.
“Madison County Sheriff’s deputies are on the scene of a helicopter crash. The area affected is Highway 53 near Burwell Road,” said the Madison County Sheriff’s Office in .
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“We anticipate evening traffic to experience heavy delays in this area throughout the evening.”
Meanwhile, Team Redstone, a US Army publication, said: “Redstone Arsenal leaders are aware of reports of a helicopter incident near Highway 53 in Huntsville.
"First responders are on scene, and Redstone Arsenal is in full support of local authorities in their active investigation.
“Initial investigations have determined that the incident is not connected to Redstone Arsenal assets, and we will continue to support community authorities as the situation develops.”
State Rep Dale W. Strong shared on Twitter, writing: “I’m deeply saddened by the fatal helicopter crash that happened in Madison County today.
“My heart hurts for those who lost their lives in this tragic incident and for their families as they learn of this news.”
He added that is communicating with local and state officials on the details of the crash.
“Right now we know it was a Black Hawk that crashed in north Madison County. There are no survivors.”
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A witness shared shocking photos of the crash site on Facebook, writing that they were “devastated that someone lost their life today.”
“I drove through as the Blackhawk crashed today on Highway 53. Hug your family tonight. I am in shock but SO GRATEFUL that I am safe and at home with my family. I love all of you SO MUCH!”
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