Flagstaff Neighborhood Shaken by Shootout and Helicopter Crash
In a west Flagstaff neighborhood, a night of chaos unfolded as police exchanged gunfire with a suspect accused of domestic violence, leading to a tragic helicopter crash involving the Arizona Department of Public Safety. The intense two-hour standoff left residents in shock and mourning after the aircraft’s crash claimed two lives.
Residents recounted their experiences during the incident, which began with an order to shelter in place. Gina Nabours, a local resident, described the confusion and fear she felt when gunshots echoed outside her home. “Those were gunshots,” her partner informed her as they lay on the floor with their child in a bid to stay safe amidst the chaos.
Flagstaff police had requested aerial support from the Arizona Department of Public Safety, which tragically resulted in a helicopter crash, killing both the pilot and another trooper. The crew was aiding in the active shooter situation, which further heightened tensions in the neighborhood.
Long-time resident Greg McLean shared his concerns, saying, “I don’t think most people who live in a suburban neighborhood in most parts of our country are used to hearing that many shots all at once.” McLean, who has lived in the area for two decades, took precautions by staying indoors with his family to avoid danger.
Another resident, Thania Ramirez, recalled the moment she realized something was amiss and took action to protect her family. She and her husband checked on their children and prepared for the worst, though thankfully, their kids remained asleep through the ordeal. “We felt the thump in the house,” she said, referring to the helicopter’s crash, and expressed gratitude towards the police officers for their brave efforts.
Following the incident, a grand jury in Coconino County has indicted a Flagstaff man on 60 felony counts. The charges are related to the shootout and the deadly helicopter crash that occurred during the eventful night last week.
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