helicopter collision, USA News (McMinnville, Oregon): Three people have died in Oregon following a midair crash involving two helicopters. Emergency responders located the wreckage in a private farm field situated near McMinnville Municipal Airport, according to information provided by the Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office.
One of the aircraft carried a British student pilot alongside a 22-year-old flight instructor from Texas, identified as Maddie Aasbo. The second helicopter was piloted by 38-year-old Tyler Sturdevant, who hailed from Newberg, Oregon. The fatal accident occurred at approximately 2:15 p.m. local time, corresponding to 9:15 p.m. GMT.
Federal authorities confirmed that the National Transportation Safety Board is leading the ongoing investigation into the crash, with participation from the Federal Aviation Administration. Yamhill County Sheriff Sam Elliott stated during a press conference that NTSB and FAA officials are currently on the scene. Local deputies, McMinnville Police Department officers, and Oregon State Police troopers all responded initially to secure the site.
Jerry Trimble Helicopters, a private flight training school and rental service, confirmed that one of its aircraft was involved in the afternoon incident. In an official statement, the company expressed deep sorrow, extended condolences to those affected, and noted that it is fully cooperating with investigators to determine the cause of the collision.
Authorities have not yet released the identity of the British student pilot, noting that notification of next of kin is pending. Sheriff Elliott indicated that his office is currently coordinating with the British consulate and the FBI to notify the family. Oregon’s Highway 233, also known as the Amity Dayton Highway, was temporarily closed as emergency personnel and law enforcement managed the response.
