Two Canadian air force members killed in helicopter crash
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau confirmed the tragic news that two members of the Royal Canadian Air Force lost their lives in an early morning Chinook helicopter crash in the Ottawa River near Garrison Petawawa.
Trudeau expressed his condolences and assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted to provide answers regarding the incident. Currently, the focus remains on notifying the families and providing support during this difficult time.
According to the Department of National Defence (DND), the crash occurred during a training flight at 12:10 a.m. on Tuesday. The DND confirmed that a CH-147 Chinook helicopter had plunged into the water, with two crew members reported missing and two others injured. The crew members who were found by first responders have been taken to a hospital in Pembroke. The identities of the missing crew members, who belong to the 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron, have not yet been disclosed.
The search efforts are being carried out by Canadian Armed Forces members, the Ontario Provincial Police marine unit, and the Petawawa and Pembroke fire departments. Their collective support aims to locate the missing crew members and provide assistance in this tragic incident.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau took to Twitter to express his thoughts and well-wishes, saying: “I'm keeping all of the members of 450 Squadron in my thoughts as search efforts continue, and I'm wishing a fast and full recovery to the injured. In this difficult time, we're here for you.” (ILKHA)