Three people died and two others were injured Thursday afternoon when a tour helicopter crashed off Kalalau Beach on Kauai’s Na Pali Coast, according to the U.S. Coast Guard and Hawaiian authorities.
Details of the Crash
Kauai police identified two of the deceased as Margaret Rimmler, 65, and Patrick Haskell, 59, both from Massachusetts. The identity of the third victim, a 40-year-traditional woman, is being withheld pending family notification.
The helicopter went down approximately 100 yards offshore while carrying five people. Good Samaritans and Kauai Fire Department crews rescued survivors and transported them to Wilcox Medical Center in Lihue, where they remain under medical care. Three people were pronounced dead at the scene.
Bystanders initiated CPR before first responders arrived. Rescue crews spent over an hour extricating one person trapped in the wreckage.
Investigation and Response
The National Transportation Safety Board has opened an investigation into the crash and will examine the aircraft once recovered. Federal investigators were expected to arrive on Kauai late Friday or early Saturday.
Airborne Aviation has suspended tour operations indefinitely and is cooperating with federal investigators. The company expressed condolences to the families and loved ones affected by the event.
This incident follows a similar crash in July 2024, also near the Na Pali Coast, which resulted in the deaths of the pilot and two passengers, according to prior NTSB findings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time did the helicopter crash?
The crash was first reported to Kauai police at approximately 3:45 p.m. On Thursday.
Who responded to the crash?
The response involved the U.S. Coast Guard, Kauai Fire Department, Kauai Police Department, and other local and state agencies, as well as Good Samaritans.
What is the status of the survivors?
The two survivors were transported to Wilcox Medical Center in Lihue and remain under medical care. Their conditions have not been publicly released.
As investigations commence, what role will the challenging terrain of the Na Pali Coast play in understanding the circumstances surrounding this tragedy?
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