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 Muรฑoz, 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.
Local News
Train Derails in Ferguson Involving Vehicles, Hazmat Team Called Over Ethyl Alcohol Rail Car
FERGUSON, Mo. โ A train derailment involving vehicles prompted an emergency response in Ferguson on Ferguson Avenue, where authorities requested a hazardous materials team after determining that one of the train cars contained ethyl alcohol.
Emergency units were dispatched to 617 Ferguson Avenue after reports of the rail incident. Responders found a train that had derailed with vehicles involved.
Officials confirmed there was no reported entrapment. Crews were checking the scene for injuries and evaluating those involved in the incident.
A Hazmat response was requested because one rail car involved in the derailment was carrying ethyl alcohol. Emergency crews were assessing the rail car for any potential leak or hazardous condition and working to secure the area.
The presence of ethyl alcohol prompted additional safety precautions while responders examined the derailed train and surrounding vehicles.
At this time, authorities have not released details about possible injuries, the cause of the derailment or the extent of damage.
The investigation and emergency response remain ongoing in Ferguson, and officials are expected to provide additional information once the scene has been fully assessed.