Senate Republicans Send Condolences Following Fatal DPS Helicopter Crash Responding to an Active Shooter Incident
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, February 5, 2026
PHOENIX, ARIZONA— Arizona Senate Republicans are mourning the loss of a DPS pilot and a DPS trooper medic who died when an Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) helicopter crashed while responding to assist the Flagstaff Police Department and other law enforcement agencies during a critical active shooter incident. Today, the Senate held a moment of silence to honor their service and sacrifice.
On the evening of Wednesday, February 4, a helicopter crew from the Arizona Department of Public Safety was dispatched to assist the Flagstaff Police Department and other law enforcement agencies in response to an active-shooter incident in the Flagstaff area. The crew was providing tactical air support when, tragically, the helicopter crashed. Unfortunately, both the pilot and the trooper/paramedic on board lost their lives. Their identities have not yet been released.
According to a statement from DPS, law enforcement officers were involved in a shooting with an active shooter suspect before the crash. The suspect sustained non-fatal gunshot wounds and has since been apprehended. Fortunately, no other injuries were reported during the incident. DPS Major Incident Division will oversee the investigation into the shooting. At the same time, DPS Safety will collaborate with the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board to investigate the helicopter crash.
"This tragic incident highlights just how challenging, unpredictable, and dangerous the job of law enforcement can be," said Senator Kevin Payne, Chairman of the Senate Public Safety Committee. "Our public safety professionals rush toward danger when others cannot, often putting themselves in harm's way without a second thought. Today, we take a moment to recognize that sacrifice and honor the courage, dedication, and sense of duty that characterize those who serve."
"Devastating news this morning: Arizona has lost two of its finest," said Senate President Warren Petersen. "A DPS pilot and trooper medic were killed while responding to an active shooter situation. They gave their lives to protect us, answered the call without hesitation, and made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our state. We stand firmly with law enforcement, honor their courage, and extend our deepest condolences to the families, loved ones, and the entire DPS team during this heartbreaking time."
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For more information, contact:
Kim Quintero
Director of Communications | Arizona State Senate Republican Caucus