A military helicopter crash in Bosnia and Herzegovina has claimed four lives and left 11 people injured while supporting a European Union peacekeeping mission. Italy’s Defence Ministry confirmed the incident occurred on Thursday, October 29, in the Brcko district.
The helicopter was part of the Italian contingent serving with the European Union Force (EUFOR) Althea mission. According to Italian authorities, 15 people were aboard the aircraft when it crashed near the village of Gorice.
Italian Army Members and Red Cross Volunteers Among Victims
Among the four people killed were two Italian army members and two members of the Italian Red Cross’s Volunteer Military Corps. The incident has prompted condolences from senior Italian officials and raised concerns about the safety of personnel serving overseas.
Italy’s Defence Ministry confirmed that all 11 survivors sustained injuries and were receiving medical treatment. Fortunately, none of the injured individuals was reported to be in a life-threatening condition.
Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto expressed deep sorrow following the tragedy. He extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and acknowledged the suffering caused by the accident.
Investigation Underway to Determine Crash Cause
The helicopter reportedly came down near Gorice in the Brcko district. Images shared by local media showed the military transport aircraft overturned on the ground, with significant damage and scattered debris around the crash site.
Authorities have launched an investigation to determine what caused the helicopter to crash. Officials have not yet confirmed whether technical problems, operational conditions, or other factors contributed to the accident.
EU Peacekeeping Mission in Bosnia
The aircraft was deployed under Operation Althea, a European Union military mission responsible for overseeing the implementation of the Dayton Peace Agreement, which helped end the Bosnian War.
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also expressed condolences to the victims’ families through a message on X. She acknowledged the difficult circumstances facing those involved in the mission and reaffirmed her thoughts were with everyone affected.
Investigations remain ongoing as Italy and relevant authorities work to establish the circumstances surrounding the tragic helicopter accident.
