Trooper Charles Michael Bassing

Charles Michael Bassing

Trooper Bassing, Investigator Kevin Brosch of the Jefferson County Sheriff's Department, and Detective James Avant of the Pulaski County Sheriff's Department, were killed in a helicopter accident.

The three officers were being trained by DEA agents as spotters for a marijuana eradication program. The aircraft was taking off when it experienced a mechanical failure and crashed into the ground. The helicopter, which had just been refueled, burst into flames. All three officers were burned to death as a result.

Trooper Bassing had been employed with the Arkansas State Police for 9 months, and is survived by his parents, son, and daughter.