Helicopter crashes near military base in Washington state

(NewsNation) — A helicopter crashed early Thursday morning near a military base in Washington state, according to the Thurston County Sheriff's Office.

Sheriff Derek Sanders said first responders found the crash site near Summit Lake, about 30 minutes west of Joint Base Lewis-McChord.

"Deputies have located the crash site but have been unable to continue rescue efforts as the scene is on fire and is starting to overheat their footwear," Sanders said.

The sheriff's office said it was advised the "military lost contact with a helicopter in the area," and was working with the base to deploy resources.

The base confirmed to KING-TV it was aware of the incident, but no further details were provided.