10:30 a.m.
The helicopters crashed in an open field across from a residential area in Cadiz, Kentucky, WSMV-TV reported.
No additional casualties were reported beyond those on the helicopters.
10:27 a.m.
Army Secretary Christine Wormuth commented on the crash during a U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee Hearing on Thursday morning.
“It’s a heavy day for the Army,” she said. “Thank you for your comments and thoughts and prayers for the families of our soldiers who were killed in the crash. Our hearts go out to them.”
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) released a statement on Twitter.
“I am devastated to learn about the Army helicopter accident over Kentucky involving our brave 101st Airborne. My team is in contact with the Army and authorities on the ground. Please pray for our servicemembers and their families as we learn more.”
10 a.m.
Brig. Gen. John Lubas, the deputy commander for operations at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, said a safety team from Fort Rucker, Alabama, will examine the crash scene.
“This is a tragic loss for our families,” Lubus said. “Our number one priority is caring for the families and soldiers in our combat aviation brigade.”
9:15 a.m.
Nine soldiers were killed Wednesday night when two Black Hawk helicopters crashed in southwestern Kentucky, the U.S. Army reported Thursday morning.
The crash happened at 10 p.m. Wednesday on a routine training missing in Trigg County, Kentucky, the Army said.
The troops were from the 101st Airborne Division in Fort Campbell, Kentucky. One helicopter was carrying five; the other four.
“The command is currently focused on caring for the service members and their families. More information will be released as it becomes available,” a Twitter post from the Army at 2 a.m. said.
Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear commented on the tragedy at a Thursday morning news conference, saying, “Today is a tough day for Kentucky, for Fort Campbell.”
