Early Morning Helicopter Crash in Louisiana Kills Two Police Officers Previously Assisting with a Vehicle Pursuit

Published March 26, 2023

Updated March 27, 2023

Early Morning Helicopter Crash in Louisiana Kills Two Police Officers Previously Assisting with a Vehicle Pursuit

On March 27, 2023, the Baton Rouge Police Department (BRPD) released additional information regarding the officers that died in a police helicopter crash that occurred in the early morning hours of March 26.  Officers, Sgt. David Poirrier, 47, and Cpl. Scotty Canezaro, 38, were the two officers who died in the crash Sunday morning in the Port Allen area. Both officers were assisting uniformed officers in a vehicle pursuit when the helicopter crashed.

Sgt. David Poirrier is a 17-year BRPD Veteran who was currently assigned to the Air Support Unit.
Cpl. Scotty Canezaro is a 16-year BRPD Veteran who was currently assigned to the Air Support Unit.

Flags have been lowered to half-staff to honor the life and legacy of both officers at the Baton Rouge Police Department’s Headquarters, located at 9000 Airline Highway. The public is asked to continue to lift the families and loved ones of our fallen officers up in prayer during this very difficult time.

BRDP indicated that additional details, such as service arrangements, will be shared as they become available.

Original:

West Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana – An early morning helicopter crash in Louisiana has killed two police officers previously assisting with a vehicle pursuit

The West Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office reported that on the morning of March 26, 2023, it was notified of a helicopter crash in an open field in Erwinville, Louisiana. The helicopter belonged to the Baton Rouge Police department and was reportedly assisting local agencies with a vehicle pursuit around 2 a.m. on March 26, but did not return after several hours.

According to reports, the crash occurred around 3 am in a field near North Winterville Road in the area of Erwinville, Louisiana.

Deputies are now on the scene along with additional Law Enforcement Support. The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board will also conduct an investigation into the crash of the aircraft.

Multiple agencies in the state have expressed their condolences to the families and friends of the officers.

Authorities indicated that additional information will be shared as it becomes available.