A Black Hawk helicopter plunged on an Alabama highway and burst into flames in a dramatic crash.

The incident took place in Madison County near Burwell Road on Highway 53 where a UH-60 Black Hawk aircraft came crashing down just moments before 3 pm on Wednesday.

In pictures and footage from the scene of the crash, black smoke and flames could be seen rising from the highway before the fire was extinguished by first responders.

According to the early reports, all service personnel aboard the helicopter died in the crash.

As of this writing, however, it remains unclear where the helicopter was stationed and who the victims were. The cause of the crash is to be investigated.

Meanwhile, the Madison County Sheriff’s Office urged motorists to avoid the route and take alternative roads instead to avoid massive delays caused by the highway’s closure.

“Redstone Arsenal leaders are aware of reports of a helicopter incident near Highway 53 in Huntsville,” the United States Army post in Madison County confirmed in a statement after the crash.

“First responders are on scene, and Redstone Arsenal is in full support of local authorities in their active investigation.

“Initial investigations have determined that the incident is not connected to Redstone Arsenal assets, and we will continue to support community authorities as the situation develops.”

While the current death toll remains unclear, the basic crew of UH-60s consists of a pilot, co-pilot, and a crew chief.

The aircraft, however, may carry additional 11 combat troops in addition to the basic crew.

Our thoughts remain with the victims’ families during this challenging time.

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