By: ABQRAW staff
Posted: 7/17/2022 @ 6:14PM
Romeroville, NM – On July 16 at approximately 7:20 pm, the BCSO helicopter known as Metro 2 crashed just outside of Las Vegas, NM. The helicopter and its crew were assisting with a wildfire in the area, they were providing bucket drops and other air logistics needs for fire crews on the ground.
Bernalillo County officials identified the four who died in the crash as Pilot/Undersheriff Larry Koren, Lieutenant Fred Beers, Deputy Micheal Levison, and Bernalillo County Fire Department Rescue Specialist Matthew King.
Around 3:45PM on July 17th, a multi agency of police and fire escorted the bodies back to Albuquerque enroute to the Office of the Medical Investigator. The route of the procession was along I-25 southbound from Romeroville to ABQ. Citizens and rescue vehicles lined the shoulders and overpasses as it made it through Albuquerque to show their respect to the fallen.
On the Montgomery Boulevard bridge two fire trucks from The Bernalillo County Fire Department had a garrison size American flag flying overhead. The procession had lights and sirens as it passed through Albuquerque. Police and Fire personnel held a firm salute when the bodies of the men passed by.
The procession was an emotional event where the public and first responders were seen crying and hugging each other.
Bernalillo County Sheriff officials say they will provide press releases and information in the coming days regarding the helicopter crash and pending memorial services.
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The FAA and the NTSB will investigate the crash and provide more findings at a later date.