A helicopter crash in Houston, Texas, resulted in multiple fatalities, including a child. Fire officials reported that the victims were aboard the helicopter, but their names have not yet been disclosed.
The incident occurred on Sunday evening when the helicopter, believed to be a privately owned R44, collided with a radio tower in the eastern part of the city. The aircraft had reportedly taken off from Ellington Field, located approximately 15 miles away from the crash site.
According to local media, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had previously issued a warning indicating that the tower’s lights were not functioning. Images from the fire department show emergency personnel examining the wreckage at the scene.
At a press conference following the crash, Police Chief J. Noe Diaz stated that there were no reported injuries on the ground. Fire Department Chief Thomas Munoz noted that the crash sparked a fire that affected a “large area” spanning an estimated two to three blocks. He commented on the fortunate fact that there were no nearby residents impacted by the incident.
Houston Mayor John Whitmire remarked on the fortunate circumstances, stating that it was lucky there was not a larger explosion. He also mentioned that some homes in proximity to the crash site experienced power outages.