I flew in Arizona for more than 12 years and attended Northern Arizona University, so news of the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) helicopter crash in Flagstaff hits especially close to home.

Northern Arizona airspace is familiar, challenging, and unforgiving at night — a place many of us in aviation know well.

According to DPS, the helicopter was assisting law enforcement during an active incident in Flagstaff when it went down late on February 4th, 2026.

Both crew members on board were killed. DPS confirmed the loss during a press conference and stated the helicopter was providing aerial support at the time.

For official updates, visit the Arizona Department of Public Safety:

The Bell 407, N56AZ, crashed west of the active shooter scene after entering a rapid climb with groundspeeds dropping to 4 knots.

Witnesses captured video of the helicopter in an apparent out-of-control spin. Weather at Flagstaff was clear with light winds, indicating conditions were likely not a factor.

Video shows aerial views of the crash aftermath and is from ABC15 Arizona — gives a sense of what happened on scene. 

This remains an active investigation, and authorities have not released details on what caused the helicopter to go down. As someone who has flown these skies, I know how much experience, training, and professionalism these crews bring to every mission.

Flagstaff isn’t just a dot on a map — it’s a tight-knit aviation and mountain community. My thoughts are with the families, coworkers, and first responders affected by this tragic loss.

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