By Crash News Writer 
Joint Base Lewis–McChord, WA (September 22, 2025) – A devastating helicopter crash near Joint Base Lewis–McChord has claimed the lives of four elite Army soldiers, officials confirmed on Friday.
According to the Washington State Patrol, the incident occurred around 9 p.m. on Wednesday, September 17, when air traffic controllers lost contact with an MH-60 Black Hawk helicopter conducting a routine training mission. The aircraft went down in a rural, heavily wooded area near Summit Lake in Thurston County.
The helicopter was assigned to the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment—commonly known as the “Night Stalkers”—which supports the nation’s most sensitive missions, including those carried out by SEAL Team 6 and Delta Force. All four individuals on board were members of this elite unit and are presumed dead.
Emergency crews struggled to reach the site initially, as fire at the crash scene made the area hazardous for rescue personnel. Recovery efforts are ongoing, and names of the deceased will be released after notification of next of kin.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This story is based on initial information from Army and local authorities and may be updated as investigations continue. For support with legal or procedural questions, review our frequently asked questions in Washington.
The soldiers’ identities will be officially released by military officials after next-of-kin notifications. Recovery operations remain active in the area.
Authorities are working to determine what caused the Black Hawk to go down during a standard training mission. Mechanical failure, environmental conditions, and flight protocols will be part of the ongoing investigation.
Support for affected military families is available. See our accident resources in Washington to find grief counseling, legal advice, and more.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or military advice. As official details develop, content may change. For personalized help, please consult a licensed professional. See our full disclaimer.
If your family has been impacted by this tragedy, speak with a compassionate Washington personal injury lawyer today to explore your options.