Coalition Forces Reportedly Kill at Least 250 Militants in Iraq

Sunday, January 28, 2007
BAGHDAD, Iraq — A U.S. helicopter crashed Sunday while providing air support during a large-scale ground confrontation between Iraqi security forces and gunmen allegedly plotting to kill Shiite pilgrims and clerics during a religious festival.

The military said two crew members were killed in the crash, which occurred about 12 miles northeast of Najaf. Iraqi officials said about 250 militants were killed in the fighting, but the figure could not be independently confirmed. Sources told FOX News that up to 300 insurgents may have been killed.