Full Breakdown
Tragic Helicopter Crash Claims Lives of Four U.S. Army Soldiers
9/22/2025, 9:53:04 PM
Fatal Incident Overview
On September 17, 2025, a U.S. Army MH-60 Black Hawk helicopter crashed during a routine training mission near Summit Lake, approximately 20 miles west of Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) in Washington state. The crash occurred around 9 p.m. local time, resulting in the deaths of four soldiers from the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), commonly known as the "Night Stalkers." The soldiers were identified as Chief Warrant Officer Three Andrew Cully, 35, from Sparta, Missouri; Chief Warrant Officer Three Andrew Kraus, 39, from Sanibel, Florida; Sergeant Donavon Scott, 25, from Tacoma, Washington; and Sergeant Jadalyn Good, 23, from Mount Vernon, Washington. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation, and officials have labeled it an "aviation mishap."
Background of the Soldiers
The soldiers were part of an elite unit known for conducting nighttime operations. Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Cully was commissioned as a U.S. Army aviation officer in 2013 and had served in various capacities, including as a pilot and instructor. Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Kraus transitioned from the U.S. Marine Corps to the Army in 2017, where he became a warrant officer and served as an aeromedical evacuation pilot. Sergeant Donavon Scott enlisted as a helicopter repairer and later served as a crew chief, while Sergeant Jadalyn Good joined the Army in 2021 and also served as a crew chief after completing her training.
Official Statements & Responses
Col. Stephen Smith, commander of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, expressed profound sorrow over the loss of the soldiers, stating, “These exceptional warriors... embodied the unwavering dedication, selflessness, and excellence that define the very spirit of the Army and Army Special Operations.” He emphasized that their sacrifice would be remembered in the legacy of the Night Stalkers. The Army has extended its gratitude to local agencies that assisted in recovery efforts, including the Thurston County Sheriff’s Office and various fire departments.
Criticism & Opposition
While the investigation into the crash is ongoing, there has been no public dissent regarding the circumstances surrounding the incident. However, the frequency of accidents involving military helicopters raises concerns about training safety protocols within the Army.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are no significant conflicting reports regarding the identities of the deceased or the circumstances of the crash. However, details about the specific cause of the crash remain unclear as investigations continue.
What's Next
The Army is conducting a thorough investigation into the crash, with a team from the Army Combat Readiness Center dispatched to the site. A memorial service for the fallen soldiers is being planned, although the details have yet to be finalized.
Verbatim Quotes
“Their sacrifice in service to our nation will forever be etched in our hearts and in the legacy of the Night Stalkers.” — Col. Stephen Smith, Commander, 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment
“The 160th SOAR is also known as the Night Stalkers, and they are one of the Army’s most elite aviation units,” — Jacqueline Hill, U.S. Army Special Operations Command Public Affairs Office
“Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.” — Lt. Gen. Jonathan Braga, USASOC Commander
