Who was Capt James Bellew? Suicidal pilot who crashed helicopter had asked about 'accessing aircraft alone'
FORT STEWART, GEORGIA: A new shocking detail has come out in the aftermath of the death of a medevac pilot. Captain James Bellew lost his life in early 2022 which involved the crash of two helicopters at Wright Army Airfield. Eventually, his death was deemed a suicide. Now, it has been reported that he had inquired if “someone could access an aircraft alone without anyone noticing” just a day before his March 30 death.
Though the 26-year-old had never tested positive for mental health issues and did not have any history of suicidal ideation, his lover reportedly told Red Cross he had wanted to take his own life. Besides, investigators who searched Bellew’s belongings found family and friends’ messages showing their concern for him, as well as “books on self-help, and statements of affirmation on handwritten notes,” the Daily Mail reported.
Who was Capt James Bellew?
Bellew had been serving as an aeromedical evacuations officer with the 3rd Infantry Division’s 3rd Combat Aviation Brigade since 2019. He was also a recipient of numerous accolades, like the Expert Field Medical Badge, Army Achievement Medal, and Army Aviator Badge.
He was the only one whose life was taken away in the incident. At the time, the 3rd Infantry Division's spokesperson, Lt. Col. Lindsey Elder, reportedly said, “Capt. Bellew was the only crewmember involved in the incident and he was the only one injured or killed in the incident. The initial indication is that all other crewmembers were asleep at the time of the incident.”
The spokesperson also noted, “At this point, we cannot address the manner of the damage to the two aircraft, the timeline of events, or the response from the tower and emergency services, as those details are still considered part of the active investigation. No further information will be released at this time to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation.”
‘The loss of James is an immeasurable tragedy’
“We have been overwhelmed by the support and condolences on this tragic event and ask that people respect the desire for privacy and time to grieve by the Bellew family, as well as our soldiers,” Elder added. A statement from the commander, Col. Eric Vanek read, “The loss of James is an immeasurable tragedy to his family, friends, crew, and fellow soldiers. James was a part of one of the noblest professions imaginable. He dedicated his life to serving our country and did so in a role where he was constantly helping and saving the lives of others.”