A Marine Corps attack helicopter made an emergency crash landing Sunday night in a parking lot within Lake Havasu State Park, resulting in non-life-threatening injuries for both pilots aboard the aircraft. The incident took place in Lake Havasu City, specifically in the area of London Bridge Road and the Windsor launch ramp. The Windsor launch ramp is recognized as one of the four boat ramps located within the state park.
Emergency crews were alerted to a reported aircraft emergency at 10:15 p.m. on Sunday night. Upon arrival, it was confirmed that the two pilots had managed to exit the helicopter independently. According to statements from the Marine Corps, the pilots were subsequently transported to Havasu Regional Medical Center. Officials confirmed that both individuals were in stable condition following the crash.
The aircraft involved in the incident was identified as an AH-1Z Viper. This particular helicopter is part of Marine Light Attack Helicopter Training Squadron 303. This squadron, which the Marine Corps described as a California-based training squadron, operates under the command of Marine Aircraft Group 39 and the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing. The home base for Marine Light Attack Helicopter Training Squadron 303 is Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton, situated outside of San Diego, California.
Following the crash, a immediate concern involved fuel leakage from the helicopter. To address this hazardous situation, Lake Havasu City firefighters were dispatched to the scene. These fire crews took measures to cover the crashed AH-1Z Viper with fire-suppressing foam, effectively containing the fuel and mitigating further risks to the area.
By Monday, an operation to remove the damaged helicopter from the state park had commenced. Michelle Thompson, who holds the position of deputy assistant director for Arizona State Parks and Trails, confirmed that a dedicated Marine accident response team was actively working on the removal process. The Marine Corps has launched a formal investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash. The branch of the military has also indicated that additional information regarding the incident will be released to the public as their investigation progresses and more details become available.
The prompt response from local and military personnel ensured the safety of the pilots and addressed the immediate hazards at the crash site, which is a frequented access point for boaters and visitors to Lake Havasu.
