EVER WONDER: Police chopper crashed after 1975 school riot

In the early 70’s my two older sisters went to Irving Middle School and there was a riot at the school. Apparently, there was a police helicopter that was headed to the school and it crashed just west of the intersection of Murray Boulevard and South Carefree. I think I remember that three policemen were killed. Can you tell me if this is what really happened?
— Vicki H. 

ANSWER: It was May 14, 1975, and police helicopter pilot Bernard “Berney” Carter had radioed he was leaving the scene at Irving Middle School after a riot involving more than 150 junior and senior high school kids was calming down.

Minutes later the chopper crashed off South Carefree Circle. Witnesses said the helicopter appeared to be losing power when Carter was able to pull up and clear the tops of houses before crashing into the street. He and a civilian observer were killed.

In 1969 Carter made news when he single-handedly captured the California “Candlelight Killer,” Robert Liberty, after a nine-mile high speed chase and gun battle. Liberty, who had been ruled both insane and sane, had strummed his guitar over his girlfriend’s body as it was outlined in lighted candles. Liberty was murdered in prison.