Home / Crime and Justice / Arizona shootout leads to indictment, helicopter deaths
Arizona shootout leads to indictment, helicopter deaths
14 Feb
Summary
- Man indicted on two counts of felony murder for helicopter crash deaths.
- Shootout with police occurred over two hours in Flagstaff neighborhood.
- Victims were a pilot and a state trooper during the incident.
A grand jury has indicted Terrell Storey, 50, on two counts of first-degree felony murder and numerous other charges. These charges stem from a violent confrontation on February 4, 2026, in Flagstaff, Arizona, where Storey allegedly fired on police from multiple rooftops for nearly two hours. The incident tragically led to the deaths of pilot Robert Skankey, 61, and Trooper paramedic Hunter Bennett, 28, who were aboard a state helicopter assisting law enforcement.
The indictment includes a total of 60 criminal counts against Storey, encompassing aggravated assault, burglary, disorderly conduct, and endangerment. Authorities have not yet specified if Storey's rifle fire directly caused the helicopter crash, which remains under federal investigation. Storey, who was hospitalized for non-life-threatening gunshot wounds, is being held on a $5 million bond.
The confrontation began when officers responded to a domestic violence call. Storey reportedly opened fire from the back of a residence, leading to an extended gun battle as he moved between rooftops. The helicopter crew was actively involved in supporting the ground officers when the crash occurred approximately 1,000 feet above a hilltop. The Coconino County Attorney's Office has committed to diligently pursuing the case.
