Accident Details
According to a report from the company's president, the pilot was taking off from an area with large bushes and scrubby trees approximately 500 feet ahead. The pilot believed he was somewhat distracted because of learning of the serious illness of his mother. When it appeared he might have difficulty clearing the obstacles to the left, he turned right to pass under power lines. The tail rotor snagged the lower power line, causing the helicopter to impact the ground.
Wreckage and Recovery
The wreckage remained intact except for portions of the tail rotor and main rotor, which broke off after impact. An unidentified witness reported that the helicopter had struck power lines while conducting agricultural operations, and that the helicopter was 'shattered' and 'totaled.' The caller stated that the helicopter wreckage had been recovered and relocated to Mineral Wells, Texas.