2 missing after Canadian air force helicopter crashes in Ottawa River

Two members of the Royal Canadian Air Force (CAF) are missing after their helicopter crashed into the Ottawa River early Tuesday morning.

The incident happened near Garrison Petawawa around 12:01 a.m. The air force says a CH147 Chinook helicopter was taking a training flight at the time of the crash.

“The missing crew are amongst a total crew of four who were on the helicopter at the time of the accident,” confirmed the CAF in a release. “Two other members of the crew were found by first responders and taken to hospital in Pembroke.”

The crew who were on board are members of the 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron.

The prime minister caused significant confusion Tuesday afternoon when he suggested the missing crew members were dead.

Justin Trudeau told reporters he had spoken with Gen. Wayne Eyre, chief of the defence staff, to express condolences for the members “who’ve been killed” and promised a “thorough investigation” into the crash.

The @RCAF_ARC is currently involved in a search for two missing members of 450 Tactical Helicopter Squadron following the crash of a Chinook in the Ottawa River near Garrison Petawawa on the morning of Tuesday, June 20, 2023: https://t.co/FoIkqDhxs4 pic.twitter.com/wnckKNG48S

— Canadian Armed Forces (@CanadianForces) June 20, 2023

The Prime Minister’s Office offered no immediate explanation for his comments, and the Department of National Defence said in an emailed response to questions that the search was continuing and “official confirmation” would be provided once more information was available.

Approximately 50 air force members are taking part in the search, along with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) marine unit, and fire departments from Petawawa and Pembroke.

“Boaters in the area are being asked to remain clear of the shores near Garrison Petawawa to aid search efforts,” reads the release.

The Town of Petawawa has temporarily stopped the intake of water from the river to their water treatment plant as a result of the crash. The town released a statement saying the precautionary measure is being taken due to potentially hazardous material from the downed aircraft.

“Petawawa is implementing a watering ban for all non-essential watering,” says the town. “This ban will remain in effect until further notice.”

With files from The Canadian Press

Search efforts are underway for two members of the Royal Canadian Air Force, who are missing after their helicopter crashed into the Ottawa River. I'm keeping all of the members of 450 Squadron in my thoughts as search efforts continue, and I'm wishing a fast and full recovery to…

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) June 20, 2023