ABC News August 12, 2026

2 soldiers dead after Apache helicopter crashes in Texas: Army

WATCH: Deadly Army helicopter crash near Fort Hood

Two soldiers are dead after a military helicopter crashed in Salado, Texas, on Wednesday, according to the U.S. Army.

The chopper, which crashed in a field near Fort Hood in Texas, was an AH-64 U.S. Army Apache attack helicopter, according to the Army.

The two-seater aircraft was based at Fort Hood, the Army said.

"Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families, friends, and fellow Troopers of those involved during this incredibly difficult time," Brig. Gen. Ethan Diven, 1st Cavalry Division acting commanding general, said in a statement.

The names of the soldiers are being withheld until 24 hours after next-of-kin notification, the Army said.

The Bell County Sheriff's Office said it received a 911 call regarding a helicopter crash after 1:30 p.m. local time. The crash sparked a grass fire, authorities said.

No buildings or structures were damaged, the Bell County Sheriff's Office confirmed to ABC News.

Fort Hood personnel were on scene working with local first responders, the Army said.