Marine pilot killed, another hospitalized in Southern California helicopter crash

CALIFORNIA – A U.S. Marine Corps pilot was killed and a second pilot hospitalized following a crash involving an AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter in a remote area of southeastern California, on Thursday evening, military officials confirmed.

The incident occurred around 7:05 p.m. on Oct. 16 near Imperial Gables in Imperial County.

The aircraft, assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 (HMLA-369) of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, went down during what the Marines described as a “routine training flight” in support of the Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course.

One of the pilots was transported to Pioneers Memorial Hospital in Brawley, where he was pronounced dead.

The second pilot was taken to Desert Regional Medical Center in Palm Springs and is listed in stable condition.

‘Made the ultimate sacrifice’

In a statement, Maj. Gen. James B. Wellons, commanding general of the 3rd MAW, expressed profound sorrow for the loss and affirmed support for the fallen Marine’s family and friends.

“This Marine made the ultimate sacrifice, and we are forever grateful for his selfless commitment and willingness to go into harm’s way,” he said.

The Marines confirmed they will withhold the identity of the deceased service member until 24 hours after next-of-kin notification.

No details were released about the investigation or the safety board overseeing the inquiry.

“To preserve the integrity of the ongoing investigation, no additional details are available at this time. Mishap investigations can take several months to complete, depending on various factors,” a wing spokesperson said.