Three Texas Parks and Wildlife Department employees died yesterday in a helicopter crash in Brewster County, in West Texas. The three were conducting aerial surveys for desert bighorn sheep when the helicopter went down. The victims include Wildlife Biologist Dewey Stockbridge, Fish and Wildlife Technician Brandon White, and State Wildlife Veterinarian Dr. Bob Dittmar. The lone survivor was the pilot who is a private contractor.
The Texas Department of Public Safety, the Federal Aviation Administration and the Texas Game Wardens are currently investigating the incident.
Carter Smith, TPWD Executive Director: “No words can begin to express the depth of sadness we feel for the loss of our colleagues in this tragic accident."
Texas Governor Greg Abbott: "Our hearts ache today for those who died in this tragic accident, Cecilia and I are deeply saddened by this loss and we extend our sympathies to the families and loved ones of the victims. I ask all Texans to keep these families in their thoughts and prayers.”