Memorial Monument Unveiled For 2008 Medevac Crash Victims

BALTIMORE (WJZ)--The victims of the 2008 Maryland State Police medevac crash were remembered today.

A monument to the four people killed was unveiled in District Heights, close to the crash site.

WJZ's Pat Warren has more on the ceremony.

The medevac was rescuing victims of a traffic accident when the chopper went down in bad weather.

The chopper was airlifting two car crash victims.

"They answered the call every time, regardless of the weather, regardless of the challenge, regardless of the risk," said Chief David Mitchell, Maryland State Police retired superintendent.

The chopper went down in the woods in District Heights, Prince George's County. Pilot Stephen Bunker, paramedic trooper Mickey Lippy, and EMT volunteer Tonya Mallard were killed. Patient Ashley Younger was killed in the crash. Her friend Jordan Wells survived.

"It's kinda hard not to ask god like, why me?" Wells said.

Jordan met EMT Mallard's family for the first time at the memorial today.

"I think about you, I think about the two miracles you survived that night and even though we lost something we still, like, you're still here. We need to get closer and talk," said Tamara Coln, Tonya Mallrd's aunt.

Wells said Friday ceremony brought some peace.

Those who lost loved ones in the crash joined by state police and emergency responders may find some comfort in knowing their sacrifice was not in vain.

The memorial is located in Walker Mill Park and was funded by contributions from individuals, businesses, and civic organizations.