Tragic Helicopter Crash Claims Two Lives in Flagstaff
A tragic helicopter crash occurred Wednesday night in Flagstaff, resulting in the loss of two members of the Arizona Department of Public Safety. The incident has left the community mourning the dedicated service of those who were aboard the aircraft.
The victims have been identified as DPS pilot Robert Bruce Skankey, aged 61, and trooper-paramedic Hunter R. Bennett, aged 28. Both men were on a mission to assist Flagstaff police during a nighttime active shooter situation in a local neighborhood when the helicopter went down.
At a press conference held in Phoenix on Friday, DPS Director Jeffrey Glover expressed profound sorrow, stating, “Today, we honor the lives, their service, and their positive impact that Robert and Hunter had on the department and on the community that they served, saving countless lives with their commitment to public service.”
Robert Skankey, a seasoned Marine veteran with 5,100 flight hours, had joined the state police in 2021. An alumnus of Northern Arizona University and Brigham Young University, Skankey is survived by his wife and four children.
Hunter Bennett, who joined the state force in 2022, was recognized for his exceptional performance at the Arizona Law Enforcement Academy, where he graduated with the highest overall scores in his class. He is survived by his wife.
Although the cause of the crash remains unknown, Director Glover noted that the helicopter had undergone its last inspection just a week prior and was not scheduled for retirement. The National Transportation Safety Board is conducting an investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety continues to remember the sacrifice and dedication of both Skankey and Bennett, who were committed to ensuring the safety of the communities they served.
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