Helicopter Crash Claims One

Witnesses called authorities when they saw a helicopter crash Thursday morning near Lake Pleasant. There was one man on board when officials arrived. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

It is a possibility that the helicopter struck power lines, however, investigators are still trying to determine the cause of the crash.

Officials are not releasing the name of the victim before notifying his family. The man piloting the craft was not the owner.

We have seen some disturbing crashes involving helicopters in Arizona over the last few years. In July 2007, two news helicopters crashed into each other over Phoenix Indian School Park, killing all four occupants. In June 2008, two medical helicopters en route to Flagstaff Medical Center crashed, killing all seven on board.

When a helicopter or airplane crash occurs, within minutes or hours, officials from the National Transportation Safety Board (“NTSB”) are on scene to gather evidence and investigate the cause of the crash. The NTSB is an independent body responsible for the investigations of all aircraft accidents. Determinations need to be made whether pilot error, faulty maintenance or a failed system is responsible. The NTSB uses this information, in conjunction with aircraft manufacturing and pilot training, to try to prevent similar accident from again occurring.

Whether it is an aircraft accident, car accident or other, keep in mind that a timely investigation is often key in determining what really happened. Through the passage of time, key evidence can often be lost or destroyed. In any type of accident, getting experienced legal counsel involved early can be a very important step in the process.

It is unknown at this time how the most recent helicopter crash occurred. In time, all questions will most likely be answered. Our hearts and prayers go out to the family and friends of the man who lost his life in this unfortunate accident.