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US: Nine soldiers feared dead as two US army helicopters crash during training in Kentucky

US: Nine soldiers feared dead as two US army helicopters crash during training in Kentucky

A Black Hawk helicopter takes part in a drill at an Air Force base

Two US Army Black Hawk helicopters crashed during a routine training operation in the southeastern state of Kentucky on Wednesday, Governor Andy Beshear informed. Local media reports mentioned that at least nine soldiers were killed.

The army crew members of the 101st Airborne Division were flying two HH-60 Black Hawk helicopters around 10:00 PM ET (0200 GMT)in Kentucky's Trigg County airbase, located on theKentucky-Tennessee borderwhen the accident transpired.

"At approximately 10 p.m. yesterday, two 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) helicopters crashed in Trigg County, Kentucky. The crewmembers were flying two HH60 Blackhawk helicopters during a routine training mission when the incident occurred," US Army Fort Campbell said in a statement.

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It added that the "status of the crew members" wasunknown at thetime. "The command is currently focused on caring for the service members and their families. More information will be released as it becomes available. The incident is under investigation."

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According to local witnesses, the two choppers came incredibly low to the ground and after passing over some civilian houses, a loud bang was heard. The exact cause of the crash is not known.

“The status of the crew members are unknown at this time. The command is currently focused on caring for the servicemembers and their families,” the statement added.

"We’ve got some tough news out of Fort Campbell, with early reports of a helicopter crash and fatalities are expected. @kystatepolice, @KentuckyEM and local officials are responding. We will share more information as available. Please pray for all those affected," tweeted Beshar.

Local reports have statedthat the US military's Safety Investigation Team from the Combat Readiness Centre in Alabama will be dispatching its representatives to the scene to ascertain the cause of the crash.

The weather conditions at the time of the crash were pristine with light to no wind.

(With inputs from agencies)

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