The two Marines killed in Friday's helicopter crash at Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, California, were based out of Camp Pendleton and were flying in a UH-1Y Venom, Marine officials announced Saturday night.
The Marines were participating in a training event at Twentynine Palms at about 4:30 p.m. when the crash occurred, according to a Marine Corps news release. The Marines were the only two aboard the utility helicopter, and died as a result of their injuries, the release states. The Marines and the aircraft were assigned to 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing and were based at Camp Pendleton, Marine officials with their command tweeted Saturday night.
The Marines' names will not be released until 24 hours after the next of kin are notified. The incident is currently under investigation.
"Our hearts go out to the families and friends of the two Marines we lost in this tragic accident," Maj. Gen. Michael Rocco, 3rd MAW's commanding general said in the release. "We at Third Marine Aircraft Wing stand ready to provide support to their families."
No additional details about the accident were immediately available.
