Police Helicopter Crashes Near Flagstaff During Active Shooter Response; Two Killed

FLAGSTAFF, Arizona – A police helicopter crashed Wednesday night, Feb. 4, 2026, near Flagstaff, Arizona, resulting in two fatalities. The crash occurred as authorities were responding to an active shooter incident where a suspect was firing at officers from residential rooftops.

The Arizona Department of Public Safety confirmed the helicopter was providing tactical air support at the time of the incident. The two individuals aboard, identified as a pilot and a trooper/paramedic, did not survive. Their identities have not been released.

The cause of the crash, including whether the helicopter was struck by gunfire, is under investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).

Active Shooter Incident Details

Flagstaff police initially responded to a domestic violence call around 8:30 p.m. local time on Wednesday. Upon arrival, officers were fired upon by a suspect wielding a semi-automatic rifle from behind a house. Officers returned fire.

The suspect subsequently moved onto a roof, engaging officers in a nearly two-hour standoff while moving between multiple home roofs. During this time, the suspect discharged dozens of rounds at officers and into nearby residences.

Suspect Apprehension

The suspect sustained a gunshot wound during an exchange of gunfire with officers. The individual was taken into custody at approximately 10:20 p.m. and is currently receiving medical treatment at a Flagstaff hospital.

No other individuals were reported injured during the gunfire exchange.