HOUSTON – A tragic helicopter accident occurred on Sunday evening in Houston, resulting in the deaths of four individuals, including a child, after the aircraft collided with a radio tower, as reported by fire department officials.
The incident took place shortly before 8 p.m. in the Second Ward area, located east of downtown Houston. Authorities believe the helicopter, identified as an R44 model, was departing from Ellington Field, situated approximately 15 miles from where the crash occurred.
Currently, the identities and ages of those who lost their lives in the accident have not been disclosed.
The Houston fire department announced on social media that their Public Information Officer was on the way to the scene labeled as the crash site at Engelke and Ennis streets.
According to Houston City Councilmember Mario Castillo, the downed helicopter was a private touring aircraft rather than one operated by the Houston Police Department; however, this detail has not been independently verified.
Numerous emergency response teams were reported to be at the crash site as local news outlets covered the unfolding scene.
Authorities have reached out to residents living near the crash site, advising them to contact 911 if they discover anything on their property that might assist in the ongoing investigation.