New Hampshire Man, 26, Among 5 Soldiers Killed In Helicopter Crash

GORHAM, NH — A New Hampshire man is among the five Army soldiers killed in a helicopter crash during routine flight training over the Mediterranean Sea Friday, the U.S. Department of Defense announced Monday.

Staff Sergeant Tanner W. Grone, 26, of Gorham was on board the MH-60 Blackhawk along with Chief Warrant Officer 3 Stephen R. Dwyer, 38, of Clarksville, Tennessee, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Shane M. Barnes, 34, of Sacramento, California, Sergeant. Andrew P. Southard, 27, of Apache Junction, Arizona, and Sergeant Cade M. Wolfe, 24, of Mankato, Minnesota, officials said.

All five were killed when the helicopter—which was conducting aerial refueling training— "experienced an in-flight emergency resulting in the crash," officials said.

There are no indications the crash was caused by enemy or hostile actions, according to officials.

"Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families of the fallen," The U.S. Department of Defense wrote Monday. "The U.S. Army's Combat Readiness Center is conducting an investigation into the incident."

Gov. Chris Sununu offered condolences to the family on Monday.

“Valerie and I extend our condolences to the family of Staff Sgt. Tanner Grone, who gave his life while serving his country,” Sununu said. “Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of Staff Sgt. Grone and his four fellow soldiers who perished. Their bravery and devotion to this nation, and the protection of our freedoms, shall never be forgotten.”

House Speaker Sherman Packard, R-Londonderry, also offered a statement after hearing about the death Grone.

“On behalf of the New Hampshire House of Representatives, I would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the family, friends, and colleagues of Staff Sgt. Tanner W. Grone,” he said. “Many who serve, do so with integrity, honor, and bravery. As we mourn the loss of such a young life — and the loss of his fellow soldiers — we promise to honor his legacy by advancing liberty and upholding freedom here in New Hampshire.”