A National Guard soldier from New York, Casey Frankoski, aged 28, has been tragically identified as one of the three individuals killed in a helicopter crash near the US-Mexico border. The incident involving a UH-72 Lakota helicopter occurred around 2:50 p.m. on March 8 near Rio Grande City, Texas, as reported by the Joint Task Force North.
Frankoski, hailing from Rensselaer County and an alumna of Columbia High School in East Greenbush, was remembered for her excellence in academics, sports, and community service prior to joining the New York National Guard. Rensselaer Mayor Mike Stammel highlighted Casey’s deep family roots in public service, noting her father, retired Rensselaer Police Chief James Frankoski.
John M. Grassia III, a 30-year-old New York State Police trooper and National Guard member, was previously identified as another victim. A Border Patrol agent also lost their life in the crash, while another soldier sustained injuries. The identities of the latter two have not been released.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul expressed her profound sorrow over the loss, recognizing the ultimate sacrifice made by the individuals in service to their country. The state of New York mourns this significant loss alongside the National Guard and State Police communities.