Event Overview
A pilot reported that during a return flight, the tail rotor chip detector light flickered and then illuminated steadily. Familiar with the area, the pilot knew of a fire department near the intended landing site and decided to execute a precautionary landing there to inspect the helicopter.
Accident Sequence
During the landing approach, the pilot failed to observe a television transmission line. The helicopter struck the line, nosed down from approximately 5 feet above ground level, rolled to the left, and impacted the ground.
Pilot's Account
The pilot stated that a strong lateral wind gust from the east swung the tail rotor into the low-hanging cable. However, the nearest weather reporting facility did not report wind gusts at the time of the accident. The pilot additionally stated that there was no mechanical malfunction.
Conclusion
The accident involved a wire strike during a precautionary landing initiated due to a tail rotor chip detector indication. No mechanical malfunction was reported by the pilot, and the nearest weather facility did not record wind gusts coinciding with the event.