Local News
Officials Identify Victims of Fatal Helicopter Crash Near Kinney-Uvalde County Line
KINNEY COUNTY, TX – Authorities have identified the victims of a fatal helicopter crash that occurred Thursday afternoon near the Kinney-Uvalde County line in Southwest Texas.
The Kinney County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that William Garrett Robertson was the pilot, and Earle Blakely Hunnicutt was the passenger on board the aircraft at the time of the crash.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), the crash occurred at approximately 1:20 p.m. and involved a Robinson R44 helicopter.
The aircraft went down west of Uvalde, near U.S. Highway 90, in the vicinity of Harris Ranch.
First responders, including law enforcement and emergency personnel, arrived at the scene, but both individuals on board succumbed to their injuries.
Officials are still working to confirm who was actively piloting the helicopter at the time of the crash.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has launched an investigation into the crash, and a preliminary report is expected to be released Friday.
This report is expected to include details such as the aircraft registration number and additional information about its operation.
Owners of Harris Ranch Uvalde, where the helicopter reportedly crashed, have confirmed that no individuals associated with Hometown Heroes Outdoors—a nonprofit organization that provides hunting excursions for first responders and veterans—were on board at the time of the incident.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash, and additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
EAST AURORA, N.Y. — Emergency crews responded to the Aurora Theatre at 673 Main Street in the Village of East Aurora on Sunday following a ceiling collapse inside the historic building while students and chaperones were present.
Officials said construction activity inside the two-story brick structure led to a portion of the ceiling giving way during a scheduled event.
At the time of the incident, approximately 68 students and adult chaperones were inside the theater.
First responders confirmed there was no entrapment and the collapse was limited in scope.
Emergency Medical Services evaluated six pediatric patients for minor injuries at the scene. No serious injuries were reported.
Fire and safety officials secured the area and conducted a structural assessment to ensure the remainder of the building was safe.
Authorities said the incident remains under review, including the circumstances surrounding the construction work that preceded the collapse.
Further information will be released as the investigation continues.