A tragic helicopter crash occurred in the rural area of Minnesota on Saturday afternoon, resulting in a fiery explosion and the loss of all passengers on board, according to official reports. The Robinson R66 helicopter crashed near Lakeville, just west of Airlake Airport, approximately eight minutes after departing from Sky Park Airport in Lydia. This information was confirmed by the Lakeville Police and online flight data.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) released a statement indicating that the helicopter crashed under unknown circumstances, followed by a post-crash fire. The exact number of passengers on board has not been confirmed by the police, who reported finding no survivors at the crash site.
The single-engine helicopter, capable of carrying a pilot and up to four passengers, was en route to Airlake Airport. FlightAware data shows that the ill-fated aircraft took off around 2:35 p.m. and reached a peak altitude of 2,000 feet before crashing in a remote area near Highway Avenue and 219th Street West, approximately 25 miles south of Minneapolis.
The crash site, marked by scattered debris, did not result in any additional injuries, according to police reports. The identities of the passengers on board have not been disclosed by officials at this time.
The NTSB has dispatched an investigator to the crash site, who is expected to arrive by Sunday afternoon. The investigation into the cause of the crash is being conducted jointly by the NTSB and the Federal Aviation Administration.
As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of those on board and awaits further information about the tragic incident.