Tragic accident in China: a fire-fighting helicopter was requested on Monday morning in the province of Yunnan. The helicopter was about to draw water from the lake.
Videos show that the helicopter is initially circling over Lake Erhai in a controlled manner. The weather is cloudy, a bit gloomy. A rope with an extinguishing basket hangs on the helicopter. Suddenly there is an accident: the helicopter rotates uncontrollably through the air.
Catches fire before impact
The helicopter quickly loses altitude. A few meters above water, it bursts in two and catches fire. Other smaller parts fly through the air. Then the helicopter crashes into the lake. The rescue team after the crash is gigantic: 16 boats and over 490 rescue workers are said to have been involved in the action, according to the authorities.
The cause of the accident is unclear
According to the local authorities, the entire crew who were on board the helicopter dies: four people lose their lives. Two crew members were rescued on Monday afternoon after the crash, but died after medical care was unsuccessful. The other two people were found dead on Tuesday night.
The cause of the accident is still being investigated. (nl)
Published: 05/11/2021, 12:41 p.m.
Last updated: May 11, 2021, 13 minutes ago