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Phoenix, United States: Four people were killed after a private helicopter crashed in the rugged mountains near Telegraph Canyon in central Arizona on Friday morning, authorities confirmed.
According to the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, the helicopter departed Pegasus Airpark in Queen Creek and went down at around 11 am, approximately 64 miles east of Phoenix. The victims included a 59 year old pilot and three young women aged 21, 21 and 22. All occupants were pronounced dead at the scene.
Investigators revealed that the helicopter struck a kilometre long slack line stretched across the mountain range, which led to the fatal crash. Officials have not yet disclosed the purpose of the line or whether it was marked for aviation visibility.
“Our prayers are with the victims and their families,” the sheriff’s office said, adding that temporary flight restrictions were imposed over the area to ensure operational safety during recovery and investigation efforts.
The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board have launched a joint investigation into the incident. Telegraph Canyon, a popular outdoor recreation area, is known for challenging flying conditions due to its steep and complex terrain.
Authorities said further details will be released as investigators analyze the wreckage and determine the exact sequence of events that led to the accident.
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