The Mission Church in Gilbert became a place of remembrance on Monday as hundreds attended a solemn funeral service for Hunter Bennett, a 28-year-old Arizona Department of Public Safety trooper and paramedic. Bennett tragically lost his life in a helicopter crash on February 4 while aiding the Flagstaff Police.
During the nearly two-hour service, those who knew Bennett shared heartfelt stories, painting a picture of a man dedicated to both his work and his family. His father, Jeff Bennett, highlighted his son’s commitment to service and his adventurous spirit.
“I know that even knowing the final outcome of his mission, the night he died along with Rob, Hunter would have still suited up and headed out to protect the Flagstaff community,” Jeff Bennett expressed.
Breanna Bennett, Hunter’s widow, emotionally recounted their last days together through a love letter she read aloud. “One of the last memories I have of us was planning your 28th birthday party this month,” she said. “And now I just look around, and it’s crazy how many people have loved him and how many lives he’s touched.”
Hunter Bennett had a promising career ahead of him, having joined the state police in 2022. He graduated from the Arizona Law Enforcement Academy with the highest marks in his class.
Just days before, a funeral service for 61-year-old DPS pilot Robert Skankey, who also perished in the crash, took place in Kingman. The National Safety Transportation Board is still investigating the cause of the helicopter crash.
Funeral services were held in Kingman Friday for the Department of Public Safety pilot killed in a helicopter crash in Flagstaff earlier this month.
—
Read More Arizona News
