In a tragic incident, a firefighting helicopter belonging to the Broward County Sheriff’s Office in Florida, USA, crashed on Monday morning in the area of North Dixie Highway and Atlantic Boulevard, plummeting into an apartment building. The crash resulted in the loss of two lives.
The Broward County Sheriff’s Office reported that the Eurocopter EC135 helicopter descended slowly and spiraled before crashing into the apartment building in Pompano Beach around 8:45 AM local time. Videos circulating on social media show the helicopter’s descent and the resultant impact, which left a gaping hole in the building’s roof.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), there were three people on board the ill-fated aircraft. Tragically, one person inside the helicopter and another on the ground lost their lives. The occupants of the helicopter sustained injuries that are not life-threatening, as confirmed by a city spokesperson.
One of the victims of the crash was identified as Captain Terryson Jackson, a 50-year-old officer with over 14 years of service in the Broward County Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff Gregory Tony praised Captain Jackson, calling him a “celebrity” and one of the brightest in their ranks.
The unfortunate incident also claimed the life of a woman who was inside the apartment when the helicopter crashed. Additionally, two civilians who rushed to help the victims suffered non-life-threatening injuries. The crash site has been cordoned off, and the investigation into the incident will be carried out by both the FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to determine the underlying causes that led to the helicopter’s tragic crash.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the risks and sacrifices made by those who dedicate their lives to public service, as the community mourns the loss of those who lost their lives in the line of duty.