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.
Local News
Mass Casualty Incident Declared Following Multi-Vehicle Crash on Interstate 75 in Fort Shawnee
FORT SHAWNEE, OHIO – Emergency crews responded to a serious multi-vehicle crash Sunday on northbound Interstate 75 near the 118-mile marker, just inside Allen County near Fort Shawnee, prompting officials to declare a Mass Casualty Incident (MCI).
According to initial reports, traffic along I-75 northbound had slowed or come to a complete stop due to a separate vehicle fire near the same location.
As motorists were halted in the roadway, a semi-truck traveling northbound failed to stop in time and collided with multiple passenger vehicles.
Preliminary information indicates the semi struck between five and six vehicles, resulting in multiple injuries.
Authorities reported that several individuals were trapped inside their vehicles due to severe damage, while at least one person was ejected from a vehicle during the crash.
Due to the number of injured parties and the complexity of the scene, a Mass Casualty Incident was declared to coordinate emergency response efforts.
Multiple fire and EMS units were requested to assist, including squads from Shawnee Township, Cridersville, and Wapakoneta.
Northbound traffic on Interstate 75 at and near the 118-mile marker is completely shut down as first responders work to extricate victims, provide medical treatment, and clear the roadway.
Motorists are strongly advised to avoid the area and seek alternate routes.
The extent of injuries and the total number of victims have not yet been officially confirmed.
The crash remains under active investigation.