Two soldiers are dead after a military helicopter crashes in Texas, sparking a fire

The fire prompted evacuations and “looks to be out of control,” an official said.

Two soldiers who were on a military helicopter were killed Wednesday when it crashed in Salado, Texas, the Bell County Sheriff’s Office said.

They were pronounced dead after officials responded to 911 calls around 1:30 p.m., sheriff’s spokesperson Cliff Coleman said. Salado is about 50 miles north of Austin.

The Army AH-64 Apache attack helicopter is based at Fort Hood, the military installation said.

The soldiers were taken to Carl R. Darnall Army Medical Center at Fort Hood, and their names are being withheld until 24 hours after their families could be notified.

“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with the families, friends, and fellow Troopers of those involved during this incredibly difficult time,” Brig. Gen. Ethan Diven, acting commanding general of the 1st Cavalry Division, said in a statement.