Crash Details and Rescue Efforts
The accident occurred around 3:45 p.m. near the remote coastline of Kauai when a helicopter carrying one pilot and four passengers went down in the ocean. Emergency crews, including the U.S. Coast Guard and Kauai Fire Department, responded quickly.
Bystanders and first responders rescued two survivors, who were airlifted to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities confirmed Friday that both remain under medical care.
Victims Identified
Officials identified two of the victims as 65-year-old Margaret Rimmler and 59-year-old Patrick Haskell, both from Massachusetts. The identity of a third victim, a 40-year-old woman, has not yet been released pending family notification.
Investigation Underway
The helicopter, identified as a Hughes OH-6 Cayuse, was operated by tour company Airborne Aviation.
In a statement, the company expressed condolences to the victims’ families and confirmed it is cooperating fully with investigators.
Both the Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board are leading the investigation. Officials say it remains in the early stages, and no cause has been determined.
Ongoing Response
Authorities emphasized coordination among agencies during the rescue and recovery efforts. Officials also expressed support for the victims’ families and the survivors as they begin recovery following the tragic.
For more on this story, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.