MENDON, N.Y. (WKBW) — The Monroe County Sheriff's Office says three soldiers are dead after a New York Army National Guard helicopter crashed about 20 minutes south of Rochester, Wednesday night.
The sheriff's office says the helicopter crashed in a field on West Bloomfield Road in the town of Mendon just after 6:30 p.m. while on a routine training mission.
The sheriff's office says West Bloomfield Road between Boughton Hill Road and Cheese Factory Road is closed.
The helicopter was assigned to C Company of the 1st Battalion, 171st General Support Aviation Battalion.
The cause of the helicopter crash is under investigation.
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo says flags will be lowered to half-staff on Thursday, and released the following statement
"I am devastated by the news tonight of a New York Army National Guard helicopter crash in the Town of Mendon that killed three of New York's bravest during a training mission.
"National Guard members are our citizen soldiers who voluntarily serve and protect both here and abroad, and I extend prayers and condolences from all New Yorkers to the family, loved ones and fellow soldiers of these honorable heroes who we will never forget.
"I am directing that flags on all State buildings be lowered to half-staff tomorrow in honor of and in tribute to these New Yorkers who dedicated their service to nation and state."
