NAJAF, Iraq (AP) - An American military helicopter crashed on Sunday during fighting near the Shiite holy city of Najaf, and the U.S. military said two crew members were killed. Iraqi military authorities said about 250 militants died in the battle.

Iraqi authorities said the helicopter crashed while providing air support to Iraqi troops battling militants who planned attacks against Shiite pilgrims and clerics during the upcoming Ashoura commemorations. A U.S. statement said the remains of the crew members were recovered.

A U.S. statement said the American helicopter went down while