Local News
Victims killed in Houston radio tower helicopter crash identified
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 victims have been identified as Cesar Lerma, his wife, and their son.
Gabriela Barron, a relative of the victims, spoke to Channel2 NOW and shared, “Cesar is my cousin’s stepbrother. We just got the news it was them this morning. Please keep them in your prayers.”
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.
SALISBURY, Md. โ A 25-year-old motorcyclist has died from injuries sustained in a serious collision involving a motorcycle and a minivan in Salisbury, Maryland. Dylan Ryan Luffman passed away on November 2, three days after the crash that left him critically injured.
According to the Salisbury Police Department, the collision occurred at approximately 6:54 a.m. on October 30 at the intersection of Route 50, also known as East Salisbury Parkway, and the crossover leading to southbound Route 13.
Police reported that a 2011 Honda Odyssey was traveling south through the crossover and attempting to enter southbound Route 13 when it collided with Luffman’s 2004 Suzuki GSX-R1000 motorcycle.
At the time of the crash, Luffman was traveling eastbound on Route 50. The collision involved one person in each vehicle.
The impact left Luffman with serious injuries, prompting an emergency response from Salisbury EMS.
Following the collision, Luffman was transported by Salisbury EMS to TidalHealth Peninsula Regional for emergency medical treatment.
He remained hospitalized as medical personnel worked to treat his injuries. Despite those efforts, his condition proved fatal. On November 2, Luffman succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the hospital.
His death has turned an already devastating crash into a heartbreaking loss for his family, friends, and loved ones.
The Salisbury Police Department is conducting an advanced crash investigation to determine the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Authorities are asking anyone who witnessed the crash or has information that could assist investigators to contact the Salisbury Police Department at 410-548-3165.
Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to come forward.
Dylan Ryan Luffman was just 25 years old. His passing is a heartbreaking reminder of how suddenly a person’s life can change following a serious roadway collision.
For his family and friends, the days following the crash were filled with uncertainty and hope as he fought to recover. His death on November 2 brings profound sorrow to those who knew and loved him.
At only 25, Dylan had so much life ahead of him. His absence will undoubtedly be felt by the people whose lives he touched, and his loved ones now face the difficult task of navigating life without him.
Our deepest condolences go out to Dylan’s family, friends, and everyone mourning his loss. May they find strength and comfort during this incredibly difficult time.
May Dylan Ryan Luffman rest in eternal peace.