Tragic helicopter crash leaves first responders in Northern Kentucky grieving

KENTON COUNTY, Ky. (WKRC) – The close-knit community of first responders in Crescent Springs is struggling with the devastating loss of three crew members in a recent helicopter crash.

“It’s been less than a week since we’ve been with these people and when I heard it last night I was like, ‘Oh my God, tell me that’s not true,'” said Deputy Fire Chief Chuck Dietz of Crescent Springs/Villa Hills Fire Department said.

The crash claimed the lives of Gale Alleman, Bethany Aicken and James Welsh and left a profound impact on local firefighters and paramedics. Dietz pointed to the far-reaching impact of the tragedy, saying:

“The loss of the people you know really affects everyone here.”

Dietz recalled training sessions with Alleman and Welsh just days before the crash.

“We decided we needed some training with these guys because we’ve never done this with them before. So they were here last Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday,” Dietz said.

Dietz, who had known Alleman for years, described him as an experienced pilot and one of the best around.

“He was so personable, and you never saw the guy in a bad mood,” Dietz said.

He also spoke fondly of the Welshmen he met during training.

“It was really nice to be in the classroom and have those open discussions, get a little better feel for him,” Dietz said.

The flight crew had recently worked with local firefighters and paramedics on landing operations near the new fire station. Dietz emphasized the critical role of rescue helicopter crews, particularly during morning traffic delays.

“With construction and traffic in the morning, sometimes the 15-minute drive to UC is not a 15-minute drive to UC with morning rush hour traffic,” Dietz said.

The tragedy continues to weigh heavily on first responders across Northern Kentucky.

“Just pray for these people and their families. They’re going through a lot, the entire AirVac community and all of Northern Kentucky,” Dietz said.

Fundraisers are being organized to support the families of the victims. If you would like to help, click here.