A helicopter crash near downtown Houston resulted in the deaths of four people, including a child, on Sunday night. The incident occurred after the aircraft collided with a radio tower and is under investigation by multiple agencies, including the FAA and NTSB.
The tragic deaths of four individuals, including a child, were the result of a helicopter collision into a radio tower near downtown Houston on Sunday night. The Houston Fire Department (HFD) received reports of the incident near Engelke Street at approximately 7:55 p.m., which resulted in the ignition of a fire at the impact site.
The R44 helicopter, which departed from Ellington Airport, collided with the tower while en route to an unknown destination. The identities of the deceased have not yet been disclosed, as officials are currently in the process of notifying their families. Emergency responders arrived at the site within minutes of the crash, as confirmed by HFD Chief Thomas Muñoz and HPD Chief Noe Diaz during a news conference.
The rapid response of HFD personnel, who worked to secure the area and address safety concerns regarding electricity and gas lines, was acknowledged by Mayor John Whitmire. Fortunately, no external structures were damaged, despite the fact that the fire consumed approximately 100 to 200 yards of vegetation near the tower.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are currently conducting an investigation into the accident. Reports suggest that the radio tower's lights had been inoperable since October 16. Authorities recommend that individuals who discover debris refrain from touching it and promptly contact 911.
