American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, Nov. 7, 2003 – Six American soldiers were killed Nov. 7 when a Black Hawk helicopter crashed near Tikrit, Iraq, according to U.S. Central Command.

The U.S. Army aircraft belonged to the 101st Airborne Division, CENTCOM reported, and had six soldiers aboard.

CENTCOM said the helicopter had caught fire after reaching the ground, noting the cause of the crash is unknown at this time.

Identification of the deceased is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. An investigation of the incident is underway.