Summary
A U.S. Marine pilot died and another was injured after their helicopter crashed in the California desert during a training exercise. The crash involved an AH-1Z Viper helicopter from the "Gunfighters" squadron. An investigation into the incident is currently underway.
Key Facts
- The crash happened on Thursday evening, October 16, 2025, in Imperial County, California.
- The helicopter was part of the Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369, nicknamed the "Gunfighters."
- The crash occurred during a training mission for the Marine Corps Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course.
- One pilot was pronounced dead at a hospital in Brawley, California.
- The second pilot was injured and is currently in stable condition at another hospital.
- The Marine Corps has not released the identity of the deceased pilot as they need to notify the family first.
- An official safety investigation has begun and could last several months.
- The investigation will review maintenance records, flight data, and environmental factors to determine the cause.
