A medical helicopter crashed in Mississippi on Monday, resulting in the tragic deaths of a pilot and two hospital workers, according to officials.
The helicopter was returning from a patient transport mission when it crashed in Madison County around 12:30 pm, killing all on board, stated Dr. LouAnn Woodward, the University of Mississippi Medical Center’s vice chancellor for health affairs, at a press conference.
“The entire Medical Center family is heartbroken over this,” said Woodward. This marks the first crash in the 29-year history of the AirCare emergency services, as per a university statement.
While no reason for the crash has been provided, investigations are underway by the Federal Aviation Administration and other authorities. The victims’ families have been informed, but their names have not been released due to privacy concerns.
“It’s a tragic reminder of the risks Mississippi’s first responders take every day to keep us safe,” Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves posted on Facebook. “Our state will never forget the sacrifice of these heroes.”
This incident occurred just hours after multiple people were reportedly injured following a plane crash near a retirement community in Lancaster County,Pennsylvania, reports The Mirror US.
The aircraft tragically crashed on Sunday afternoon in the car park of the Brethren Village Retirement community in Manheim Township. It has been reported that Aircraft N347M left Lancaster Airport at 3:15 pm (local time).
President Donald Trump has faced criticism for a series of notable plane crashes that have happened since he took office, following his cuts to the Federal Aviation Administration, key safety programmes and a halt on air traffic control recruitment. However, when questioned about the latest crash, he sidestepped responsibility, stating it would have occurred regardless of the crew size.