Incident Details
A public-use law enforcement helicopter sustained damage after colliding with rocks and terrain while conducting low-altitude maneuvers in mountainous terrain on a dark night. The pilot was performing a turning descent to provide the observer with a better view of the area. During the turn, he heard a loud bang followed by a vibration and subsequently opted to land.
Findings
After egressing the helicopter, the pilot discovered that approximately 3 inches of each tail rotor blade were missing. Days later, while inspecting the accident scene, he found red and white paint transfers on a rock located about 100 yards uphill from the landing site. The tail rotor blades were painted red and white, consistent with the paint transfers.
Pilot Statement
The pilot reported no mechanical malfunctions or failures with the helicopter prior to the impact. He stated that his complacency and eagerness to finish the flight might have contributed to misjudging the maneuver.