Border Patrol and first responders at the scene of a helicopter crash in Starr County, Texas, on March 8, 2024. (Credit: KRGV)

(CNN) --

A U.S. military helicopter crashed Friday afternoon near the southern border, killing two service members and a U.S. Border Patrol agent, according to a statement from the U.S. Border Patrol. armed forces.

Another soldier was injured in the incident.

"We are heartbroken by the devastating loss of Border Patrol Agent Chris Luna, as well as National Guard Chief Warrant Officer 2 Casey Frankoski and Chief Warrant Officer 2 John Grassia, in Friday's helicopter crash near Rio Grande City, Texas. "U.S. Customs and Border Protection said in a statement.

The UH-72 Lakota helicopter assigned to the federal southwest border support mission was conducting aviation operations near Rio Grande City, Texas, according to the military statement.

The cause of the accident is being investigated.

The helicopter was following migrants before crashing in "an open field," Starr County Judge Eloy Vera told CNN.

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One person in critical condition was sent to McAllen Medical Center in McAllen, Texas, Vera said.

County officials were waiting for federal authorities to arrive in town so they can begin the investigation, she added.

CNN contacted the hospital for additional information.

US President Joe Biden said in a statement Saturday that his "deepest condolences" are with the families of the two National Guardsmen and the US Border Patrol agent who died.

"These brave Americans dedicated their lives to protecting our nation. They enlisted knowing the risks and believing in the mission to serve their fellow Americans by keeping our nation safe," Biden said.

"We extend our deepest condolences to their families and loved ones, as well as their colleagues in the United States National Guard and Border Patrol."

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas praised Luna as a "heroic public servant" in a statement Sunday.

"Trooper Grassia, who dedicated himself to serving and protecting not only the citizens of the state of New York, but also citizens throughout the United States, will be remembered for his ultimate sacrifice," the Military Benevolent Association said in a statement. New York Police.

Rensselaer, New York Mayor Mike Stammel also spoke of Frankoski: "A proud Rensselaer native and distinguished graduate of Columbia High School, Casey was not only an excellent student, but also excelled in sports and service." community before joining the New York National Guard. Casey comes from a family deeply rooted in public service, and her legacy as an American hero resonates throughout our community."

CNN's Samantha Waldenberg contributed to this article.

AccidentHelicopter accident