UPDATED: 4:30 p.m., January 2, 2025
Four people died in a helicopter crash near Superior, Arizona, after the aircraft struck a recreational slackline strung across a mountain range, according to the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office. Rescue crews reached the wreckage on foot and confirmed the fatalities.
The victims include a 59-year-old man from Queen Creek who was piloting the helicopter. Three female family members, ages 22, 21 and 21, also died in the crash. Next of kin notifications have been made to the families.
Slackline Stretched Across Mountain Range
Preliminary evidence indicates a recreational slackline more than one kilometer long had been strung across the mountain range, PCSO reported. An eyewitness who called 911 reported seeing the helicopter strike a portion of the line. The aircraft then fell to the bottom of the canyon.
Crews Reach Remote Crash Site
PCSO Search and Rescue, Superior Fire, Queen Valley Fire and BORSTAR crews reached the wreckage alongside FAA investigators. The helicopter had taken off from Pegasus Airpark in Queen Creek, Arizona, prior to the crash.
Deputies had initially responded after receiving reports around 11 a.m. The crash occurred in the mountains near Telegraph Canyon, south of Superior.
Federal Agencies Investigating Helicopter Crash
The investigation by the NTSB and FAA is ongoing. PCSO said it will provide updates as new details emerge.
