With profound sorrow and heavy hearts, we honor and remember the lives of Trooper/Paramedic Hunter Bennett and Pilot Aviation Supervisor Robert Skankey, two dedicated public servants who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty during a law enforcement helicopter crash in Flagstaff, Arizona, on Wednesday. Their passing is a heartbreaking loss not only for their families and loved ones, but for the entire state of Arizona and the countless lives they served and protected.
The incident occurred as an Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) helicopter was responding to assist Flagstaff Police during an active and dangerous situation involving a violent suspect. What began as a call to help bring safety and order to a neighborhood under siege ended in unimaginable tragedy. In the midst of chaos, these two men answered the call without hesitation—doing what they had committed their lives to do: protect others.
🕯️ Hunter Bennett, just 28 years old, embodied the future of public service. He began his journey with DPS as a cadet state trooper in 2022, was assigned to highway patrol in 2023, and transferred to Western Air in 2024, where he served as a trooper/paramedic. Despite his young age, Hunter had already built a reputation for dedication, courage, and compassion. He was someone who ran toward danger so others could find safety, bringing not only law enforcement skills but lifesaving medical care to those in need. His promise, his passion, and his heart for service will never be forgotten.
🕊️ Robert Skankey, 61, was a seasoned pilot, leader, and mentor. A longtime resident of Kingman, Robert proudly served in the United States Marine Corps from 1988 to 2010, dedicating more than two decades of his life to his country before continuing his service with DPS in 2021. He was promoted to aviation supervisor in 2024, a role that reflected the trust, respect, and admiration he earned throughout his career. His steady presence, experience, and leadership guided others and set an example of what it means to serve with honor.
Hunter and Robert were the crew of Ranger 56, united by duty, professionalism, and a shared commitment to public safety. Authorities have stated that there was no gunfire from the helicopter, that the aircraft was properly maintained and recently inspected, and that the crash remains under investigation by the National Transportation Safety Board. While the circumstances are still being examined, what is already clear is the bravery and selflessness with which both men served until their final moments.
That evening, officers responding to a domestic violence call were met with gunfire, turning a quiet neighborhood into a battlefield. As law enforcement worked to contain the threat and protect residents, Hunter Bennett and Robert Skankey took to the air to support their fellow officers below. Their sacrifice came in the course of protecting others—a testament to the risks first responders face every single day.
Today, flags fly lower, hearts ache deeper, and a community pauses to grieve. We mourn two heroes whose lives were defined by service, courage, and dedication. We extend our deepest condolences to their families, friends, colleagues, and the entire DPS family. May they find strength in knowing that Hunter and Robert are remembered with honor, gratitude, and love.
🕊️ Rest in eternal peace, Hunter Bennett and Robert Skankey.
Your service will never be forgotten.
Your sacrifice will always be honored.
Your legacy lives on in every life you protected and every heart you touched.