Local News
Victims Identified After Three Medical Helicopter Crew Members Killed in Owenton Crash
A somber mood hangs over Kentucky following the tragic crash of a medical helicopter on Monday evening in Owen County. Three crew members lost their lives in the accident, which occurred near Kentucky Highway 22 East.
Kentucky State Police confirmed the identities of the deceased as Pilot Gale “Butch” Alleman, Flight Nurse Bethany Aicken, and Flight Paramedic James Welsh.
The Owen County coroner pronounced them dead at the scene.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) reported that the helicopter, a Bell 206, went down around 6 p.m.
According to Air Evac Lifeteam, the air medical service company operating the helicopter, the crew members were from their Grant County base (AEL 133) and were en route to pick up a patient when the crash happened.
“This is a terribly sad event, and our deepest condolences go out to the families and friends of our employees,” a spokesperson for Air Evac Lifeteam expressed in a statement. “Our top priority right now is supporting the impacted families and our team members. We have deployed critical incident stress management teams to assist everyone during this difficult time.”
The spokesperson added that Air Evac Lifeteam is cooperating fully with the investigations being conducted by both the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB).
The NTSB expects investigators to arrive at the scene on Tuesday afternoon. However, they cautioned that uncovering the cause and circumstances surrounding the crash will be a lengthy process.
“A preliminary report will be issued within 30 days of the accident,” an NTSB statement explained. “This report will contain factual information gathered during the initial investigation phase.
Determining the probable cause of the crash, along with any contributing factors, will be detailed in the final report, which is expected to take 12 to 24 months to complete.”
The NTSB urged anyone with information or surveillance footage that might aid their investigation to contact them via email at witness@ntsb.gov.
The crash also caused a brief power outage for multiple Owen Electric Cooperative, Inc. customers around 6:30 p.m. Thankfully, power was restored to all affected areas just 20 minutes later by 6:50 p.m.
It is with profound sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Deputy Sheriff Carl “Little Chief” Jensen, a deeply respected and dedicated member of the Little River County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputy Jensen was found deceased earlier this evening after he did not report for his scheduled shift.
Deputy Jensen was more than a colleague—he was a cherished brother in uniform, a trusted protector of the community, and a steadfast public servant whose presence will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him.
Carl’s journey into law enforcement was driven by a passion to protect those who could not protect themselves.
After completing college, he began his career with Adult Protective Services, investigating allegations of abuse and exploitation in state hospitals, group homes, and home health care settings.
It was during one such case—uncovering the truth behind a complex exploitation investigation—that Carl realized his calling. “I got bit by the law enforcement bug that day,” he once said. “I wanted to help protect and bring justice to those who need it.”
Throughout his career, Deputy Jensen demonstrated extraordinary empathy, integrity, and resilience. He often reflected on the emotional weight of his work, especially when responding to calls on what could be the most difficult days in people’s lives.
“Sometimes, people don’t realize that we’re there to help everyone involved,” he shared. “Even on what could be their worst day, I can do my best to make it better—or at least keep them calm.” His compassion and humanity set an example for us all.
Our deepest condolences and unwavering support go out to Deputy Jensen’s family during this incredibly painful time.
We ask the community to join us in keeping his loved ones and our department in your thoughts and prayers as we grieve this heartbreaking loss.
Deputy Carl Jensen’s legacy of service, kindness, and courage will never be forgotten.
We are grateful for his life, his dedication, and the profound impact he had on those he served and served with.