Two-copter crash
in Kahuku being
studied at Alabama base

By Gregg K. Kakesako
Star-Bulletin

It will be at least another month before the Army releases the findings of its investigation into the crash of two Black Hawk helicopters last month that killed six and injured 11 in the worst Army training accident in Hawaii.

There are two ongoing investigations: One is to determine whether any safety regulations need to be changed, and the second is to determine liability.

That investigation is being conducted by Col. Terry Peck of the Army Safety Center at Ft. Rucker, Ala. A four-man safety evaluation team was sent to Hawaii to search for the cause of the accident Feb. 12 in the Kahuku Military Training Area near Sunset Beach.

Peck's evaluation, which could lead to possible criminal charges, will be forwarded to Maj. James Dubik, 25th Infantry Division commanding general, for final determination.

"The separate safety investigation will determine if the Army needs to make any changes to its regulations or safety procedures," said Maj. Cynthia Teramae, Army spokeswoman.

Both investigations are being done at Ft. Rucker.

Investigators also are awaiting the results of engine analysis from the copters' maker, Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. Also under study are the night vision goggles used by the pilots.

The crash occurred in the early evening as the division was completing an annual exercise.

A soldier in one of the Black Hawks has said it is possible one copter hit another carrying a sling load.

"We are taking our time," said Brig. Gen. William Caldwell, 25th Division assistant commander. "We want to ensure that our investigation is methodical, painstaking and objective and that we learn everything about how this tragic accident happened."