Sunday, July 19, 2009

DTN News: Helicopter Crash In Afghanistan Kills 16

DTN News: Helicopter Crash In Afghanistan Kills 16 *Source: DTN News / Int'l Media (NSI News Source Info) KANDAHAR, Afghanistan - July 19, 2009: The NATO alliance in Afghanistan says a civilian helicopter crash in the country's south has killed 16 people. NATO officials say a Russian-built Mi-8 helicopter crashed Sunday while taking off from Kandahar's main air base. Reports from the area say 17 people were on board the helicopter. Kandahar Air Field is NATO's largest base in southern Afghanistan. Meanwhile, a U.S. military helicopter in the northeast made an emergency landing in Kunar province. U.S. military spokeswoman Lt. Commander Christine Sidenstricker said no enemy fire was reported near either helicopter accident. The two incidents follow last week's downing of a helicopter that killed all six civilian contractors on board and a child on the ground. Afghan officials said the aircraft may have been shot down by insurgents. NATO commanders say the cause of the crash is not clear and under investigation.

No comments: