Local News
1 body recovered at Mogadore Reservoir following helicopter crash in Portage County
Suffield Township, OH – March 2025 – Authorities in Portage County have recovered one body following a helicopter crash in the Mogadore Reservoir early Friday morning.
Emergency crews continue to search the area to ensure there are no additional victims.
Suffield Township Fire Chief Bob Rasnick provided an update at the scene around 10:40 a.m., stating that search and recovery efforts remain ongoing.
“The water rescue team is utilizing an AquaEye sonar device, which scans underwater for potential objects,” Rasnick explained. “It detected something, but we are still working to confirm whether it is related to the incident. At this time, we do not believe there are additional victims, but we are being thorough.”
Emergency responders were first notified of the crash at 7:11 a.m.
Witnesses, who were in a boat on the reservoir, reported seeing the helicopter strike Ohio Edison high-tension power lines before crashing into the water.
FirstEnergy, whose power lines were involved in the crash, released a statement expressing concern for those affected:
“We’ve received reports of a third-party helicopter crash in Portage County that involved our power lines. Our main concern is for those who may have been involved in the incident, and our thoughts are with them. First responders have our full cooperation as they investigate the incident.”
Chief Rasnick confirmed that some leakage was detected from the helicopter, but crews have taken measures to contain it and prevent contamination of the water supply.
Additionally, the Portage County Sheriff’s Office announced that Sunnybrook Road is closed between Martin Road and Saxe Road as emergency personnel continue their response. The public is urged to avoid the area.
Emergency teams, including sheriff’s deputies, emergency management personnel, fire crews, and drone units, remain on-site conducting search and recovery operations.
Further updates will be provided as new information becomes available.
Tylertown, MS – A powerful tornado tore through Tylertown, Mississippi, on Saturday evening, resulting in the tragic deaths of three individuals and leaving a path of extensive destruction.
According to Tylertown Police Chief Jordan Hill, the tornado, which is believed to be the same storm that previously impacted Kentwood, Louisiana, caused severe structural damage throughout the area.
In Kentwood, officials reported damage to at least 30 homes before the storm moved into Mississippi.
Authorities have confirmed that the deceased include two adults and one minor, all of whom were in two separate mobile homes on Bethlehem Loop near the Darbun community when the tornado struck.
Additionally, multiple individuals sustained injuries, though the extent of those injuries has not yet been disclosed.
Emergency crews are actively engaged in rescue and recovery operations as they work to locate survivors and assess the full extent of the damage.
“Our top priority at this time is ensuring that anyone who may still be trapped or in need of medical assistance receives immediate help,” Chief Hill stated.
Authorities are urging residents to avoid the affected areas to allow emergency personnel to carry out their operations efficiently.
Power outages and downed communication lines have further complicated recovery efforts.
Local, state, and federal agencies are coordinating relief efforts, and emergency shelters have been established for displaced residents.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.