PHOENIX — Law enforcement organizations are working to support the families of two Arizona DPS crew members who died in a helicopter crash last week in Flagstaff.
Pilot Robert B. Skankey and DPS paramedic trooper Hunter R. Bennett were killed in a crash while providing aerial support to Flagstaff police officers who were in a "gun battle" with a man.
Skankey joined the Arizona DPS on May 8, 2021, and was promoted in June 2024. He completed advanced safety training. He's survived by his wife and four children.
Bennett joined the Arizona DPS on June 11, 2022, and was nationally certified as a paramedic. He graduated from Arizona State University and is survived by his wife, who was his high school sweetheart.
"No words can adequately express the sorrow that we feel," said Colonel Jeffrey Glover, the Director of the Arizona Department of Public Safety.
Here's how you can help:
BBQ fundraisers
The Arizona State Troopers Association and the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 32 are hosting a fundraiser BBQ to help support the families on Thursday, Feb. 12 in Phoenix.
The event is from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at DPS Headquarters (2102 W. Encanto Blvd). There will be food, raffles, and shirts for sale for $25.
DPS says 100% of proceeds and donations will go directly to the families.
BBQ fundraising events are also being held in Kingman and Flagstaff.
Donate online
ABC15, the Arizona State Troopers Association, and the Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 32 held a phone bank on Tuesday to raise money for the families.
The phone bank portion of the fundraiser has ended, but you can still help the families by donating any time online.
