Accident – Death – Obituary News :
Tragic Helicopter Crash Claims Lives in Rural Rio Grande Valley
Tragedy struck the Rio Grande Valley, Texas, on Friday when a National Guard helicopter crashed in a remote rural area just two miles east of La Grulla. The crash resulted in the loss of three lives, including three National Guard soldiers from upstate New York and one U.S. Border Patrol agent.
Details of the Incident
Officials from Fort Bliss in El Paso revealed that the Lakota helicopter was on a federal southwest border support mission when it tragically went down. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, leaving many questions unanswered.
Victims of the Crash
The fallen National Guard soldiers, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Casey Frankowski and Chief Warrant Officer 2 John Grassia, were among those who lost their lives in the crash. Another National Guardsman is currently hospitalized due to injuries sustained. Additionally, the Border Patrol agent who tragically passed away was identified as Christopher Luna, a dedicated agent from Edinburg.
Remembering Agent Luna
Christopher Luna, a 17-year veteran of the Border Patrol, was well-known and respected within the Rio Grande Valley community. Colleague and Vice President of the National Border Patrol Council, Chris Cabrera, fondly remembered Luna as a hard worker who will be deeply missed by all who knew him.
Support and Condolences
The news of the crash sent shockwaves through the community, prompting an outpouring of support from various law enforcement agencies and members of the public. Cabrera highlighted the importance of coming together in times of tragedy and expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received.
As the investigation into the crash continues, the focus remains on supporting the families of those affected and honouring the memory of those who lost their lives in this devastating incident.
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