The Italian Ministry of Defense announced on October 29 local time that a Italian military helicopter carrying EU peacekeeping troops in Bosnia and Herzegovina crashed that day, resulting in the death of 4 people and injuries to 11 others.
The Department of Defense stated that two of the victims were members of the Italian Army, both belonging to the Italian Red Cross's volunteer military corps. The Department of Defense also noted that all 11 injured persons are receiving treatment and are not in life-threatening condition. There were 15 people on board the aircraft.
Italian Defense Minister Guido Crostolo said: "At this time of extreme sorrow, the first people I think of are the families of those who sacrificed their lives. I express my personal and the entire defense department's condolences to them."
According to Ansa News Agency, the helicopter crashed in the village of Gorica in the Brčko district. Pictures released by local media showed a military transport helicopter overturned and broken into pieces.
"No words can alleviate such profound loss," Crosetto said.
It is reported that the aircraft was deployed as part of the EU Force’s ‘Hibiscus Operation’, which is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the Dayton Peace Agreement.
The Italian Ministry of Defense stated that the cause of the crash is under investigation, and related investigations are underway to determine the specifics of the accident. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also expressed her condolences, writing on X: "My heart is with the victims, their families, and all those who have been involved in efforts to promote peace and stability in this region, and who are currently going through difficult times."
