Tragedy struck in Pompano Beach, Florida, on Monday morning when a Broward Sheriff’s Office Fire Rescue helicopter crashed into an apartment building, resulting in the deaths of two people and injuries to four others. The National Transportation Safety Board confirmed that one person onboard the helicopter and another person on the ground were killed in the crash.
The BSO captain who lost his life in the accident was identified as 50-year-old Terryson Jackson, a veteran of the agency with 19 years of service. Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony spoke highly of Jackson, describing him as a dedicated and committed member of the community.
A woman who was inside the apartment building also lost her life in the crash. However, the two other BSO employees who were onboard the helicopter managed to crawl out and survive.
The incident occurred around 8:45 a.m. in the vicinity of North Dixie Highway and Atlantic Boulevard, near the Pompano Beach Airpark. The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed that three people were onboard the Eurocopter EC135 helicopter, which crashed into the apartment building, causing a large hole in the roof and visible burned debris.
Videos posted on social media captured the moments leading up to the crash, showing smoke emanating from the helicopter before it spiraled out of control and plummeted to the ground.
Following the crash, two crew members and two civilians who were inside the apartment building were hospitalized. Fortunately, all four individuals are currently listed in fair condition at Broward Health North.
Eyewitness footage showed two men, believed to be BSO personnel, sitting on a roof near the crash site. Witnesses marveled at their survival, with one exclaiming, “These (expletive) saved their life.”
Local 10 News reporter Samiar Nefzi spoke with the father and sister of the two civilians who were injured. They revealed that the brothers were alone in their apartment when the crash occurred, and they are anxiously awaiting updates on their condition.
Residents in the area recounted hearing a loud sound, described as “pop, pop, pop, pop,” followed by the sight of fire engulfing the surroundings.
As a result of the crash, Dixie Highway is currently closed between Northeast Fifth Street and Northeast 10th Street, and drivers are advised to avoid the area.
The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board will conduct investigations into the cause of the collision.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the risks faced by first responders and the importance of their unwavering dedication to serving their communities.
What steps will the National Transportation Safety Board take to determine the cause of the helicopter crash and prevent future incidents?
Of the wreckage and were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Their current conditions are unknown.
The helicopter crash occurred around 2 a.m. local time, and the apartment building sustained significant damage as a result. Authorities are investigating the cause of the crash, and the National Transportation Safety Board will conduct a thorough examination to determine what factors led to the tragic incident.
Witnesses reported hearing a loud explosion before seeing the helicopter engulfed in flames. Emergency services rushed to the scene and worked tirelessly to extinguish the fire and rescue those trapped inside the building.
The community has been left in shock and mourning over the loss of two lives in this horrific accident. The Broward Sheriff’s Office has offered counseling services to both its employees and residents affected by the crash, recognizing the profound impact such a tragedy can have on individuals.
In a press conference, Sheriff Tony expressed his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and assured the community that a thorough investigation will be conducted to prevent a similar incident from occurring in the future.
As the investigation continues, the focus remains on comforting the affected families and providing support to the injured. This tragedy serves as a reminder of the risks emergency responders face every day to ensure the safety of their communities, and it is a somber moment for all involved.
My thoughts and prayers go out to the families affected by this tragic accident.
This is such devastating news. Sending love and strength to the victims and their families during this incredibly difficult time.