On March 8, 2024, a UH-72 Lakota helicopter operated by the Texas National Guard crashed near La Grulla, Texas, resulting in the deaths of two New York Army National Guard aviators and a U.S. Border Patrol agent. The aircraft was conducting federal border security operations when it went down in a field in Starr County. A fourth crew member, a National Guard soldier, sustained serious injuries and remains hospitalized.
The deceased have been identified as Chief Warrant Officer 2 Casey Frankoski, 28, of Rensselaer, New York; Chief Warrant Officer 2 John Grassia III, 30, of Schenectady, New York; and Border Patrol Agent Chris Luna, 49, assigned to the Rio Grande City Station. The injured soldier, whose name has not been released, served as the helicopter’s crew chief. The crew was part of a federal Southwest border support mission under Joint Task Force North, based at Fort Bliss, Texas. The helicopter was not associated with Texas’s Operation Lone Star.
According to a preliminary report obtained by WNYT, the helicopter departed from South Texas International Airport in Edinburg at 1:48 p.m. and landed at McAllen International Airport around 2 p.m. to pick up Agent Luna. At approximately 2:05 p.m., the crew resumed flight operations. Nearly two hours into the mission, around 3:45 p.m., the helicopter entered an uncontrollable right-hand spin and crashed. The impact destroyed the aircraft. Grassia and Luna were declared dead at the scene. Frankoski was ejected from the helicopter and found 50 feet away; she was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. Despite resuscitation efforts, she succumbed to her injuries. The injured crew chief was found in his seat and transported to a nearby hospital.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. The Army’s report suggests a possible mechanical issue with the tail rotor, which may have contributed to the loss of control. The UH-72 Lakota is a light utility helicopter used for various missions, including reconnaissance and surveillance.
The tragedy has elicited condolences from officials nationwide. President Joe Biden expressed his sympathies, stating, “These brave Americans dedicated their lives to protecting our nation. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten.” Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas also extended condolences, emphasizing the risks faced by Border Patrol agents daily. New York Governor Kathy Hochul mourned the loss of the two National Guard soldiers, highlighting their commitment to service.
This incident underscores the dangers faced by military and law enforcement personnel engaged in border security operations. As investigations continue, the focus remains on supporting the families of the fallen and ensuring the safety of those who serve.
