Local News
One victim killed in Houston helicopter crash identified as Cesar Lerma
One of the four victims who tragically lost their lives in the helicopter crash that occurred Sunday night in Houston has been identified as Cesar Lerma.
Lerma was a passenger on the National Helicopter Solutions helicopter, which was conducting a night tour over the city.
Garrett Kauffman, a colleague and competitor, shared his condolences and expressed his admiration for Lerma’s skills as a craftsman.
Kauffman described Lerma as a master of his craft, highlighting his recent contribution to a project by removing panels from RTS cabinets to allow for the installation of glass.
Kauffman praised Lerma’s exceptional craftsmanship and his ability to create custom cabinets that exceeded his expectations.
He expressed regret for not having been a better friend to Lerma and fondly remembered his patience and gentle personality.
Lerma is survived by his two sons, who are believed to have joined him in the Kingdom of Heaven.
Kauffman will miss Lerma and cherish the memories they shared.
A tragic helicopter crash occurred near Engelke and Ennis in Houston at approximately 7:54 PM, according to the Houston Fire Department.
During a media briefing, Mayor John Whitmire confirmed that the crash claimed the lives of four individuals, including a child.
The helicopter, an R44 private aircraft, was traveling from Ellington Airport.
Mayor John Whitmire, HFD Chief Thomas Muñoz, HPD Chief Noe Diaz, and DPS officials gathered for a press conference following the incident.
Mayor Whitmire commended the rapid response of the HFD, noting that a nearby fire station was able to reach the scene within minutes.
The fire caused by the crash burned approximately 100 to 200 yards of grass near the radio tower. However, the fire was successfully extinguished, and there is no threat to the community.
Officials are urging residents to avoid touching any debris from the helicopter and to immediately call 911 if they discover any components.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the HFD, and the HPD are investigating the cause of the crash.
It is important to note that the radio tower’s lights had been reported as inoperable on October 16th.
Volusia County, Fla. — A 16-year-old boy has died after being found unresponsive in the Indian River during a weekend camping and fishing trip, according to the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities identified the teen as Hunter McKelvin of Paisley. Deputies said he was discovered face-down in the water Saturday morning near a small island east of Maynard May Park in Edgewater.
Members of the group located the teen and immediately began CPR before transporting him by boat to Maynard May Park.
Upon arrival, officers with the Edgewater Police Department and other emergency responders took over life-saving efforts.
McKelvin was then transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced deceased later that morning.
Investigators reported that no visible injuries were observed, and there were no immediate signs of foul play or suspicious circumstances during the initial investigation.
An autopsy has been scheduled as authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.