Tragedy struck on Saturday night when a medical evacuation helicopter crashed in Oklahoma, resulting in the loss of three crew members. The incident occurred near Weatherford, Oklahoma, after the control center lost contact with the Air Evac Lifeteam helicopter crew shortly before 11:30 p.m. The crew was returning to their base in Weatherford after successfully completing a patient care transport to Oklahoma City.

The Air Evac Lifeteam, a prominent EMS and air ambulance provider operating out of 150 bases across multiple U.S. states, including Oklahoma, expressed their devastation in a statement on Facebook. They confirmed the unfortunate news, stating, "Air Evac Lifeteam is heartbroken to report that three crew members have perished in an incident that occurred on Saturday, January 20."

The company's primary focus is on supporting the families and team members affected by this tragic event. They have deployed Critical Incident Street Management (CISM) teams to provide assistance during this difficult time. While the company did not disclose the exact location where the Bell 206L3 helicopter was found, they did mention that nearby Air Evac teams collaborated with law enforcement in the search efforts. The victims' names were not immediately released, and the company requested that their privacy be respected.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has taken charge of the investigation into the crash. The NTSB is a federal agency responsible for investigating transportation accidents and determining their probable cause.

According to The Oklahoman, the Bell 206L3 chopper with the call sign N295AE lost contact with the control center at approximately 11:23 p.m., just moments before the tragic crash. The crash site was reported to be near Hydro, approximately 65 miles west of Oklahoma City. The evac crew typically consists of a pilot, a flight nurse, and a flight paramedic, all of whom tragically lost their lives in this incident.

Air Evac Lifeteam is known for providing helicopter and ambulance transport services, with a fleet of over 150 helicopters operating in 18 states across the country. The company's website emphasizes their commitment to providing life-saving care and transportation to those in need.

As the investigation into this devastating crash commences, the focus remains on supporting the families of the fallen crew members and ensuring the privacy of those affected. The loss of these dedicated medical professionals serves as a reminder of the risks they face in their mission to save lives.