The pilot who was killed in a helicopter crash Tuesday morning on the Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation has been identified as an experienced pilot and instructor for the Embry-Riddle University Prescott campus.

The chopper, piloted by Runcie Moore, went down at about 7 a.m. in an alfalfa field near the Verde River. The crash resulted in a fire and Moore was declared deceased at the scene.

Dr. Frank Ayers, Chancellor at the Embry-Riddle Prescott campus issued a statement to the media calling Moore an “outstanding pilot, Army veteran and decorated helicopter test pilot with the Army.”

“His many contributions to education of our students, including his extensive experience, was immeasurable,” Ayers said.

Moore reportedly lifted off from Falcon Field in Mesa prior to the crash. It is believed he was the only person on board.

One witness reported hearing a bang before seeing the helicopter drop from the sky, according to fire officials.

The cause of the crash is unknown. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has taken over the investigation.