Texas helicopter crash kills New York State Trooper

ROCHESTER, N.Y. — A helicopter crash in Texas has taken the life of a local New York State Trooper.

Trooper John M. Grassia III, 30, most recently assigned to Troop G in the capital region, died Friday in a helicopter crash while serving with the National Guard and flying over the U.S.-Mexico border in Texas, according to the New York State Troopers PBA.

Two National Guard soldiers also died in the crash and another soldier on board was injured and in critical condition. According to The Associated Press, the helicopter was assigned to a border security mission and the cause of the crash is under investigation.

New York Governor Kathy Hocul released the following statement Sunday on the crash and death of Trooper Grassia III:

“I am deeply saddened at the passing of two members of the New York National Guard and a member of the New York State Police during a federal deployment along our southern border. There is no greater calling than service to and defense of your country. I join the members of our National Guard and State Police, and the entire State of New York, in mourning this tragic loss. Our deepest sympathies are with the families and friends of those killed, and I remain incredibly grateful for the many service men and women who put themselves at risk every day to ensure the security of our state and our nation.”

Trooper Grassia joined the NYSP in April 2022.