Helicopter Crash on Mississippi River Barge Leaves Two Dead
On Thursday morning, tragedy struck as a helicopter crashed onto a tank barge on the Mississippi River near St. Louis, resulting in the loss of two lives.
The incident occurred around 11:00 hours when a Hughes 369D utility helicopter collided with electrical transmission lines over the Mississippi River, causing it to crash onto the deck of the barge and burst into flames.
Reports indicate that at the time of the crash, a contractor was in the process of repairing the warning lighting and installing marker balls on the transmission wires to enhance visibility for aircraft and bird life. The helicopter was assisting in this operation when the fatal accident occurred.
Witnesses, including recreational fisherman Adam Briggs and fishing guide Wallace Maier, described the harrowing scene as the helicopter disintegrated upon contact with the powerline, engulfing in flames.
Tragically, both occupants of the helicopter lost their lives in the crash. Fortunately, the barge was unoccupied at the time, and the fire on deck was swiftly extinguished, minimizing potential damage to the vessel.
Following the accident, multiple power lines fell into the water, prompting the temporary closure of the river for navigation, along with the nearby Clark Bridge, to ensure safety for all involved.
The utility company Ameren expressed deep sadness over the incident, extending heartfelt condolences to the victims’ families and colleagues while committing to full cooperation with the investigation.
National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) Probe
The NTSB has initiated an inquiry into the crash to determine the circumstances leading to the tragic event. The investigation aims to shed light on the factors contributing to the helicopter’s collision with the powerlines and subsequent crash.
Helicopter Background
The Hughes 369 / Hughes 500 helicopter involved in the crash is a Vietnam War-era utility design originally used as a scout helicopter for the U.S. Army. Records indicate that the helicopter, delivered in 1976, had previously been involved in a serious crash in Washington State in 2003 but was restored and returned to service.
As the investigation unfolds, authorities will delve into the helicopter’s maintenance history, pilot experience, and operational procedures to ascertain the root cause of the tragic accident.
Our hearts go out to the families and loved ones of the victims as we await further details from the ongoing investigation into this devastating helicopter crash on the Mississippi River.