A US Army AH-64 Apache attack helicopter crashed into a field near Salado, Central Texas, on Wednesday, killing both pilots aboard and sparking a large wildfire that forced road closures and evacuations. The aircraft had taken off from Fort Hood, about half an hour away, and went down at around 1.34pm local time; officials described the impact as "violent" but said no buildings or bystanders were struck. Fort Hood is now leading an investigation into the cause of the crash, and the identities of the two crew members have not yet been released.

The wildfire spread to cover roughly 100 acres and was only 45% contained by 5pm, with authorities calling it "out of control" and warning residents to avoid the affected road, FM 2843. Local fire and sheriff's officials, along with Fort Hood's acting commanding general, confirmed the deaths and offered condolences, while Texas Governor Greg Abbott and a congressional candidate publicly expressed their sympathies for the crew and first responders. The story was still developing at the time of reporting, with further details expected from military officials.