Houston police are investigating a helicopter crash resulting in the death of one HPD officer and serious injuries to a second officer at 17050 Imperial Valley Drive about 2:05 a.m. on Saturday (May 2).
Both officers were transported by Life Flight helicopter to Memorial Hermann Hospital.
Officer Jason Knox, 35, was pronounced deceased. Officer Knox was sworn in as an HPD officer in June 2012 and was assigned to the Air & Marine Division.
Senior Police Officer Chase Cormier, 35, suffered severe injuries but is in stable condition. Officer Cormier was sworn in as an HPD officer in July 2006 and is also assigned to the Air & Marine Division.
HPD Vehicular Crimes Division Sergeants E. Benavidez, D. Rose, P. Pham and Officer O. Bledsoe reported:
HPD helicopter 8375F, operated by pilot Cormier and tactical flight officer Knox, was flying over an apartment complex at the above address and checking the nearby bayou, assisting North Belt Patrol Division officers on a possible drowning call. After clearing from that call, the helicopter had an undetermined issue and crashed into the apartment complex leasing office. The helicopter landed on the pilot’s side.
HPD officers and Houston Fire Department paramedics quickly arrived to assist and both officers were transported to the hospital.
This case is being investigated the HPD Vehicular Crimes, Air & Marine, and Homicide Divisions as well as the Federal Aviation Administration’s Houston Flight Standards District Office.
KJS/JFC 5-5-20
Inc. #057502220-W