Accident Sequence
According to witness reports, a helicopter was observed traveling over a river at an altitude of approximately 50 to 100 feet above the water. The aircraft then collided with an unmarked telephone line support cable. One witness stated that the engine rpm did not change until the moment of impact with the cable. Following the collision, the engine rpm slowed but did not stop.
The helicopter subsequently struck the ground along the river's edge and came to rest partially submerged on the bank. The river at the accident site measured roughly 75 yards in width.
Cable Description
About 300 feet upstream from the main wreckage, two cables were located running perpendicular to the river. One of these cables was broken and lay in the water. The other cable remained intact but was not taut, exhibiting a considerable droop. Both cables were 1/8 inch in diameter. One end of each cable was attached to a power pole near a restaurant, while the other end extended to the opposite side of the river and over upsloping terrain.
Damage to Aircraft
The helicopter sustained damage from the cable strike and subsequent ground impact, coming to rest partially submerged. No further details about the extent of damage were provided in the source.