Four U.S. soldiers died last week when their helicopter crashed during a routine nighttime training exercise in Washington state, the Army confirmed.
The fatal incident occurred around 9 p.m. local time on Wednesday, Sept. 17, near Joint Base Lewis-McChord, according to a statement from U.S. Army Special Operations Command provided to PEOPLE. The soldiers were aboard an MH-60 Black Hawk helicopter flying in a rural area when the crash took place.
The Thurston County Sheriff’s Office reported that rescue operations were delayed due to the crash site being engulfed in flames, which caused first responders’ footwear to overheat, complicating immediate access to the wreckage.
The identities of the four soldiers have not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin. Military officials said the cause of the crash is under investigation, emphasizing that the flight was a standard training mission and that there were no other aircraft involved.
“Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families, friends, and fellow soldiers affected by this tragic loss,” the Army said in a statement.
Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Cully.
U.S. Army via AP
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we confirm the loss of four courageous Night Stalkers from the 4th Battalion, 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), who tragically lost their lives on Sept. 17 during a training mission,” Col. Stephen Smith, the battalion commander, said in an official statement.
Smith honored the fallen soldiers for their “unwavering dedication, selflessness, and excellence.”
Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Kraus.
U.S. Army via AP
The 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), commonly known as “the Night Stalkers,” specializes in training to insert elite forces—including Navy SEALs, Delta Force, and U.S. Army Rangers—into combat, frequently behind enemy lines, according to Stars and Stripes.
Army officials noted that all four soldiers killed in the crash had previously received the Meritorious Service Medal, among other commendations.
Sergeant Donavon Scott.
U.S. Army via AP
“Their sacrifice in service to our nation will forever be etched in our hearts and in the legacy of the Night Stalkers,” Col. Stephen Smith added. “These heroes were not only elite professionals but also cherished teammates, friends, and family members whose absence leaves an immeasurable void.”
Sergeant Jadalyn Good.
U.S. Army via AP
Officials are actively investigating the cause of the fatal crash.
“As we mourn their loss, we stand united in honoring their memory and their extraordinary commitment to the mission. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, loved ones, and the entire Night Stalker community during this profoundly difficult time,” Col. Stephen Smith said.
