Border Agent, New York Trooper, and National Guard Pilot Killed in Texas Helicopter Crash
New York State Trooper John M. Grassia III, Border Patrol Agent Chris Luna, and a National Guard pilot were killed in a helicopter crash Friday in Texas on the Mexico border.
A Border Patrol agent and two New York National Guard Soldiers have been identified as the three people killed in a U.S. military helicopter crash in Texas Friday along the U.S.-Mexico border.
New York State Trooper John M. Grassia III and New York National Guard helicopter pilot Casey Frankoski had already been identified as among the deceased by local agencies on Saturday, while Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on Sunday identified the third person killed in Friday's crash as Border Patrol Agent Chris Luna.
"We are devastated by the tragic death of Border Patrol Agent Chris Luna, a heroic public servant who lost his life Friday in a helicopter crash while on a Border Patrol mission in Texas. Two National Guardsmen were also killed, and one National Guardsman was seriously injured," Mayorkas said.
Trooper Grassia, 30, was killed in the same crash while serving with the National Guard, the New York State Troopers Police Benevolent Association said in a Facebook post on Saturday, sending thoughts and prayers to Grassia's family, friends and coworkers.
"Trooper Grassia, who was dedicated to serving and protecting not only the citizens of New York State but also the citizens of the entire United States, will be remembered for his ultimate sacrifice," the post said. "Trooper Grassia joined the New York State Police in April 2022 and was most recently assigned to Troop G. Funeral arrangements are pending."
More Patrol

Streamlight to Showcase Newest Lighting Products at National Safety Council’s Safety Congress & Expo 2026
Streamlight will showcase its latest lights, including the Portable Scene Light III and the LiteBox 1Million, at the 2026 National Safety Council (NSC) Safety Congress & Expo.
Read More →
The 2027 World Police & Fire Games Set for Perth, Australia
The 2027 World Police & Fire Games (WPFG) will take place in Perth, Western Australia, from Friday, March 12 through Sunday, March 21, 2027.
Read More →
5.11 Partners with National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to Support #ForThe343
5.11 has joined the nationwide movement honoring the 343 New York City Fire Department firefighters lost on Sept. 11, 2001.
Read More →
Team Wendy Announces Title Sponsorship of the Jorge Pastore Foundation
Team Wendy’s 3-year partnership with the Jorge Pastore Foundation expands access to programs that strengthen those who serve.
Read More →
National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum Hosting 9/11 25th-Year Commemoration Ceremony
The National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum is hosting a 9/11 25th Year Commemoration Ceremony on Sept. 11 at 4 p.m.
Read More →
National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund Announces June 2026 Officers of the Month
The National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund (NLEOMF) named 15 officers of the Chico Police Department (California) as the Officers of the Month for June 2026 for their roles in responding to an active-shooter incident at a public library.
Read More →
Team Wendy App Creates New Digital Hub for Helmet Owners
The Team Wendy Community App provides one location for warranty registration, size-fit tools, product updates, and community connection. For helmet owners, the new app creates a simpler path to the information and tools that matter most.
Read More →
PositionPTT & Pryme Combine Communication Technologies to Deliver Distracted Driving Compliance
Pryme Radio Accessories and hardware/software maker PositionPTT join forces to advance hands-free communications and ensure Department of Transportation compliance using an integrated system of push-to-talk platforms, devices, and audio equipment.
Read More →
Justice Department Releases $25M in Law Enforcement Grants & Resources
The Office of Community Oriented Policing Services has just released $25 million in new grant Notices of Funding Opportunities (NOFOs) to support law enforcement. The recently released NOFOs include the Safer Outcomes: Enhancing Crisis Response Training for Law Enforcement Program and other grant programs.
Read More →
What Makes a Laptop Rugged or Fully Rugged?
What separates a rugged laptop from a fully rugged one? In this video, two Panasonic Connect experts explain the military testing, IP ratings, durability standards, and real-world features that help law enforcement officers rely on their computers in any environment.
Read More →