Local News
Fatal Helicopter Crash on Ririe Reservoir Under Investigation
Ririe, Idaho – One person has died, and another was seriously injured following a helicopter crash on the ice at Ririe Reservoir Thursday afternoon, according to the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office.
The crash occurred at approximately 4:40 p.m., about one mile east of the Ririe Dam.
Emergency responders were dispatched to the scene and utilized snow machines from the Juniper Campground area to reach the crash site.
Upon arrival, crews discovered two occupants inside the wreckage.
One individual was pronounced dead at the scene, while the second occupant sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported via ambulance to a local hospital for treatment.
Authorities also discovered a downed power line near the crash site, prompting safety concerns.
“Deputies have closed Ririe Reservoir and the surrounding area due to downed power lines and unstable ice conditions,” the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office stated in a news release. “The circumstances surrounding why the helicopter was in that area are still being confirmed, and the investigation remains ongoing.”
Several emergency agencies responded to the scene, including:
- Idaho Falls Fire Department
- Jefferson Central Fire Department
- Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office
- Idaho Fish and Game
- Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office Search and Rescue
- Bonneville County Fire Ammon Division
- Bonneville County Coroner’s Office
- Dive Rescue and Drone Teams
The names of the individuals involved have not yet been released, pending family notification. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have been notified and will oversee the investigation to determine the cause of the crash.
Authorities urge the public to avoid the area while the investigation continues. Further updates will be provided as more details become available.
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.