13 troops killed in helicopter crash in Diyala

Scene from a previous day of raids in Diyala

BAGHDAD, Jan 20 (Reuters) - A U.S. Blackhawk helicopter crashed northeast of Baghdad on Saturday, killing all 13 soldiers aboard in one of the deadliest single incidents for U.S. forces in four years of war in Iraq.

Residents near Baquba, in violent Diyala province, said they saw a helicopter in flames in the air but a military spokeswoman said it was not clear whether the aircraft was shot down.

A total of 16 U.S. troop deaths were reported on Saturday, the bloodiest day in Iraq for U.S. forces since President George W. Bush announced an increase in troop numbers that has run into resistance from opposition Democrats now controlling Congress.

Dozens of helicopters have crashed in Iraq, a number shot down by insurgents. The area northeast of Baghdad is one where fighting has been intense between U.S. forces and guerrillas.

"A U.S. forces helicopter went down northeast of Baghdad ... Emergency Coalition Forces responded and secured the scene. Thirteen passengers and crew members were aboard the aircraft and all were killed," the U.S. military said in a statement.

A military source indicated the helicopter was a Blackhawk. It carries two pilots, two gunners and up to 10 passengers.

From Reuters/Alternet

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