Preliminary Report Released on Fatal DPS Helicopter Crash in Flagstaff

Investigators found no evidence of ballistic damage, but the cause of the crash remains unclear.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has released a preliminary report on the February helicopter crash in Flagstaff, Arizona that killed an Arizona Department of Public Safety pilot and a trooper/paramedic. The report found no evidence of ballistic damage, but the cause of the sudden crash remains under investigation.

Why it matters

The fatal crash of the DPS helicopter has raised concerns about the safety of aerial support operations and the risks faced by law enforcement personnel during high-stakes incidents. The preliminary findings provide some initial details, but the full investigation will aim to determine the exact cause to help prevent similar accidents in the future.

The details

According to the NTSB report, the helicopter was assisting the Flagstaff Police Department after a suspect, Terrell Storey, allegedly opened fire on officers responding to a domestic violence call. The helicopter had just completed a rescue mission and was en route to the incident when it suddenly veered sharply to the right and began descending, with the crew reporting 'We're going down' over the radio. The helicopter crashed onto a dirt road, with investigators finding evidence of 'instantaneous removal of the rotor load from the power turbine' and other damage. The report did not provide a definitive cause for the crash.

  • On February 4, 2026, the DPS helicopter was deployed to assist the Flagstaff Police Department.
  • Around 9:10 p.m., the helicopter departed its base in Kingman to respond to the incident in Flagstaff.
  • At 10:16 p.m., the helicopter suddenly veered and began descending, crashing onto a dirt road.

The players

National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB)

The federal agency responsible for investigating civil aviation accidents and issuing the preliminary report on the fatal DPS helicopter crash.

Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS)

The state law enforcement agency that employed the pilot and trooper/paramedic who were killed in the crash.

Terrell Storey

The suspect who allegedly opened fire on Flagstaff police officers, prompting the deployment of the DPS helicopter.

Robert Skankey

The DPS pilot with over 3,500 hours of civil helicopter flight time who was operating the aircraft using night-vision goggles at the time of the crash.

Hunter Bennett

The DPS trooper/paramedic who was killed in the helicopter crash along with pilot Robert Skankey.

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What they’re saying

“We're going down”

— DPS Crew Member (NTSB Preliminary Report)

What’s next

The NTSB and FAA will continue their joint investigation into the cause of the crash, including the source of the fire that erupted after the helicopter went down. A final report with the determined cause is expected to be released in the coming months.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the inherent risks and challenges faced by law enforcement personnel who rely on aerial support during high-intensity operations. The preliminary findings raise more questions than answers, underscoring the importance of a thorough investigation to identify any potential safety issues or mechanical failures that may have contributed to the crash.