Two missing RCAF crew members found dead after helicopter crash in Ottawa River
Posted Jun 20, 2023 08:42:28 AM.
Last Updated Jun 21, 2023 03:21:48 PM.
Two missing crew members from a Royal Canadian Air Force C-H-147 Chinook helicopter that crashed into the Ottawa River have died.
The Department of National Defence (DND) says the two were found Tuesday evening and that their names are not being released at the request of family.
The Chinook was carrying four members of the 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron on a training mission when it plunged into the water near Black Bear Beach shortly after midnight Tuesday.
The two other crew members were taken to a hospital in Pembroke and treated for non-life threatening injuries.
There had been some confusion Tuesday when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau confirmed to reporters on Parliament Hill that two people had died in the crash, while at that time, DND told CityNews that search and recovery efforts were ongoing.
Many officials have issued statements of condolence, including Canada’s defence minister.
“I join all Canadians in mourning the loss of two Royal Canadian Air Force members from 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron,” says Anita Annand. “These brave Canadian Armed Forces members served Canada with honour, dedication, and immeasurable courage. I extend my deepest condolences to their loved ones. I also send my prayers to the two members injured in the crash, who are now recovering. We are with you.”
The chief of the defence staff is also speaking out, saying the fallen members devoted their lives to Canada with tremendous professionalism and selfless service.
“Their loss is devastating, and we stand in grief with their families, friends, and teammates during this time of great sorrow, said General Wayne Eyre. “Our thoughts and prayers are also with our members who were injured in this tragic accident, and we wish them a quick recovery. On behalf of all members of the armed forces, the Canadian Armed Forces Chief Warrant Officer and I offer our deepest condolences to the loved ones of our fallen.”
Military officials confirm the search was supported by approximately 110 Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members on the shore and on the water, along an Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) marine and dive unit and the Petawawa and Pembroke fire departments.
The military has not said anything about what caused the crash, which is now the subject of an investigation by the RCAF’s Directorate of Flight Safety.
In order to protect the integrity of the accident site, boaters and the public are being asked to remain off the Ottawa River and away from the shoreline on the operational side of Garrison Petawawa.
