Local News
Multiple Agencies Responding to Helicopter Crash Near Riverlands Way in West Alton
WEST ALTON, MO (St. Charles County) — Emergency crews are responding to a helicopter crash on the Mississippi River near U.S. Highway 67.
According to initial reports, a helicopter went down in the river and was believed to have collided with a barge.
Early dispatch information indicated the aircraft was on fire; however, incident command has since confirmed there is no active fire at the scene.
Boats from both Missouri and Illinois are currently on the water assisting with the response and recovery efforts.
Authorities have confirmed that two individuals were on board the helicopter at the time of the crash.
Their conditions remain unknown at this time.
The situation remains fluid, and responders are actively working to assess the scene and locate those involved.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Local News
High-Angle Rescue in Progress After Teen Climbs 900-Foot KSDK TV Transmission Tower in Affton
AFFTON, MO — Emergency crews are conducting a high-angle rescue operation in Affton, Missouri, after a 17-year-old male reportedly climbed nearly 900 feet up a television transmission tower belonging to local station KSDK on Heege Road.
According to officials with the Lemay Fire Protection District, the call for assistance came in around 2:30 p.m. when witnesses reported seeing the teenager scaling the tower.
Responding units from both the Affton Fire Protection District and Lemay Fire Protection District quickly arrived on scene and established a command post at the base of the structure.
Fire officials confirmed that the individual, described as a 17-year-old male, was observed barefoot and positioned approximately 850 feet above the ground.
Authorities say they believe the teen may be under the influence of alcohol or another substance, though that has not been confirmed.
Specialized technical rescue teams are currently coordinating efforts to reach and safely bring the teen down from the tower.
The operation is described as extremely dangerous and complex, given the height and structural conditions.
Law enforcement personnel have secured the surrounding area, and roads near the tower have been closed as a precaution while emergency crews work.
This is a developing situation, and updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.