Apache Helicopter Crash Near Salado, Texas Causes Fire and Evacuations

Two individuals aboard an AH-64 Apache helicopter were killed when it crashed in a field near Salado, Texas. The accident led to evacuations due to a grass fire set off by the crash, as reported by local authorities.

The Bell County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the helicopter crashed shortly after 1:30 p.m. Both individuals on board were declared dead at the scene. No homes or structures were hit, but residents nearby were evacuated because of the ensuing fire.

You could tell it was a violent crash, said Cliff Coleman, spokesman for the Bell County Sheriff’s office.

Fort Hood identified the aircraft as an Apache attack helicopter from their installation. The cause of the crash is still being investigated. Brig. Gen. Ethan Diven, acting commander of the 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood, stated, Our immediate priority is securing the site and supporting the initial response efforts. Our thoughts are with the crew and their families as we await further information.

Fort Hood Overview

The helicopter involved in the crash was stationed at Fort Hood. This is one of the largest and strategically significant military installations of the U.S. Army. It is located near Killeen in Central Texas and acts as the headquarters for the III Armored Corps. Fort Hood is a central hub for armored warfare, aviation operations, and combat readiness training.

Established during World War II, the facility regularly supports helicopter training operations, including missions involving AH-64 Apache helicopters.

Recently, Fort Hood has been involved in a naming controversy. Initially renamed Fort Cavazos in 2023, in honor of Gen. Richard E. Cavazos, the Army’s first Hispanic four-star general, the installation was again named Fort Hood in 2025. The current namesake, Col. Robert B. Hood, was a distinguished World War I officer, replacing the original Confederate Gen. John Bell Hood.

This is a developing story. More updates are expected soon.