Accident Sequence
According to witness accounts, the helicopter was observed circling a 523-foot, free-standing communications tower. After completing several circuits, the aircraft passed close to the tower. During this pass, a main rotor blade struck the tower at the 451-foot level. The outboard portion of the rotor blade separated from the helicopter, and portions of the tower, including an X-brace, also broke away.
Following the strike, the helicopter entered a spin and tumbled toward the ground. It impacted in a nose-low, inverted attitude and subsequently caught fire.
Post-Accident Examination
An examination of the wreckage revealed no evidence of preimpact part failure or malfunction. The helicopter and its components appeared to have been functioning normally prior to the collision with the tower.
Condition of the Helicopter and Tower
The aircraft sustained damage during the impact and fire. The tower was damaged, with the affected section losing structural elements including the X-brace.
Investigation
Investigators reviewed witness statements and physical evidence from the scene. No additional details regarding the helicopter type, registration, operator, or location are available in the source material.