Navy Surgeon Involved In Horrific Helicopter Accident Dies After 3 Days

U.S. Navy(foreground) / Public Domain(background)

RIP Sailor.

On Wednesday, February 21st, 2018, Lt. James Mazzuchelli, a flight surgeon with the Marine Light Attack Helicopter 267, Marine Aircraft Group 39, was struck by the tail rotor of a UH-1Y Venom helicopter. 

“His contagious enthusiasm, motivation and love for the Marines and sailors of HMLA-267 and MAG- 39 has been evident in the outpouring of grief at his loss and the support being shown to his family and close friends.” Col. Matthew Mowery | Commander of MAG-39

The accident occurred at around 6 p.m. at Marine Corps Air Station Camp Pendleton in Oceanside, California. Lt. Mazzuchelli was rushed to a local hospital after sustaining his injuries and fought for his life for three days until he succumbed to his wounds on early Saturday morning.  He has served in the Navy since 2010. 

The 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing public affairs have not released any detail as to the cause or details of the accident until an official investigation has been concluded.