CRIME & LAW

Flagstaff Helicopter Crash Kills Two During Shooting Response

PUBLISHED Feb 5, 2026, 11:00 AM ET

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Flagstaff Helicopter Crash Kills Two During Shooting Response

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 11

Center 91%

Right 9%

Sources: 11

Flagstaff, Arizona — Two Arizona Department of Public Safety crew members died Wednesday night when their Ranger helicopter crashed while providing aerial support during an active shooting response. Officers had responded to a domestic violence call around 8:30 p.m., after which a suspect fired from multiple rooftops in a prolonged exchange; officers took the suspect into custody about 10:20 p.m. The suspect suffered non-life-threatening wounds and was hospitalized. Authorities have not released the victims’ identities and said the crash is under investigation; DPS officials scheduled a briefing for Feb. 6 to provide updates. Based on 8 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By Ayesha A. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Feb. 4, ~8:30 p.m. — Flagstaff Police respond to a domestic violence call.
Feb. 4, later evening — Suspect fires from multiple rooftops; prolonged exchange with officers ensues.
Feb. 4, during the confrontation — DPS Ranger helicopter is called to provide aerial support.
Feb. 4, ~10:20 p.m. — Helicopter crashes; two crew members killed; suspect taken into custody and hospitalized.
Feb. 5–6 — Authorities state crash is under investigation and schedule further public briefings.