Crime & Safety

Pennsylvania State Police helicopter, small plane collide in midair, killing 1 and injuring 2 state troopers

A midair collision between a Pennsylvania State Police helicopter and a small airplane occurred in central Pennsylvania on Wednesday night, resulting in the...

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Pennsylvania State Police helicopter, small plane collide in midair, killing 1 and injuring 2 state troopers
A Bell 407 helicopter and a Cessna 150 airplane collided in midair at around 7:50 p.m. in central Pennsylvania. (WPMT)

A midair collision between a Pennsylvania State Police helicopter and a small airplane occurred in central Pennsylvania on Wednesday night, resulting in the death of one person and injuries to two state troopers.

The incident took place at around 7:50 p.m. in Carlisle, which is located about 120 miles west of Philadelphia. The police helicopter was conducting routine training exercises in a grassy area when it was struck by a Cessna 150 airplane from the rear.

According to Pennsylvania State Police Acting Commissioner Lieutenant Colonel George Bivens, the Cessna plane suddenly veered to the right and collided with the helicopter, causing significant damage to both aircraft. The impact resulted in a violent crash that killed the pilot of the small plane.

The two state troopers who were inside the police helicopter were initially trapped but managed to escape after being injured. They were transported to a hospital for treatment and are expected to recover, according to Governor Josh Shapiro.

The National Transportation Safety Board will lead an investigation into the incident, with assistance from the Federal Aviation Administration.

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