Tragic LifeFlight Helicopter Crash in Wilson County Leaves 1 Dead, 2 Critically Injured

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In a tragic incident on Saturday afternoon, a medical helicopter crash in Wilson County, Tennessee, resulted in the death of one crew member, while two others sustained injuries and were subsequently hospitalized. This unfortunate event has deeply affected the community and prompted a swift response from local authorities.

The Wilson County Sheriff’s Office announced the crash of the LifeFlight helicopter around 2:30 p.m. on November 8, pinpointing the location to the 7100 block of Cairo Bend Road. In the wake of the incident, officials advised drivers to avoid the area, urging them to take alternate routes to ensure emergency personnel could handle the situation without hindrance.

Both the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration have launched investigations into the crash, which involved an Airbus Helicopter EC130T2 near Lebanon. These agencies are currently looking into the circumstances surrounding the accident to determine the cause.

(Photo: WKRN)
(Photo: WKRN)
(Photo: WKRN)

In a statement issued later in the evening, the sheriff’s office expressed their condolences, saying, “Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this tragic incident, and we ask the community to continue keeping all involved in your thoughts and prayers.” The community is urged to support those affected during this difficult time.

The National Transportation Safety Board confirmed to News 2 Saturday evening it’s investigating the “crash of an Airbus Helicopter EC130T2 near Lebanon.” The sheriff’s office reported the Federal Aviation Administration is also investigating the incident.

“Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this tragic incident, and we ask the community to continue keeping all involved in your thoughts and prayers,” the sheriff’s office posted shortly after 7 p.m.

Sumner County Mayor John Isbell said the helicopter involved in the crash was Vanderbilt LifeFlight One, based at the Sumner County EMS headquarters, adding, “Please keep our partners, their families, and the crew members in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

Vanderbilt University Medical Center shared the following statement with News 2 Saturday evening:

Vanderbilt University Medical Center is deeply saddened to confirm that a Vanderbilt LifeFlight helicopter was involved in an accident this afternoon in Wilson County. Three crew members were on board. Tragically, one crew member lost their life, and two others are in critical condition and receiving care at Vanderbilt University Hospital. No patients were on board at the time of the incident.

Our hearts and deepest sympathies are with our Vanderbilt LifeFlight colleagues, their families, and loved ones during this difficult time.

The Tennessee Association of EMS Providers and the Tennessee EMS Education Association have shared their thoughts and prayers for those involved in the crash via social media, along with numerous emergency response agencies across Middle Tennessee:

Wilson County Mayor Randall Hutto also posted a statement, saying, “Our hearts are heavy tonight in Wilson County. Please join me in praying for all on the Life Flight helicopter, as well as their families and coworkers.”

Even state lawmakers have shared their condolences for those impacted by the helicopter crash, including state Sen. Rusty Crowe (R-Johnson City) and state Rep. Kip Capley (R-Summertown).

Shortly before 8:30 p.m., MJPD announced emergency vehicle activity along Interstate 40 and nearby overpasses was related to the procession honoring the LifeFlight crew member who died. Community members were asked to “be mindful and expect brief slowdowns as agencies pay their respects.”

Jacob White, a Wilson County resident, told News 2 he was fishing near Cairo Bend Road Saturday afternoon when he heard what he initially thought was an explosion. He said he’s praying for the families affected by the incident.

Heather Thigpen said the helicopter crashed down the street from her home, adding that it’s “really a little startling to know that it can happen so close.”

“You hope that God is with them because it is really a harrowing thing, and you never know when something going to happen,” Thigpen told News 2.

No additional details have been released about this incident.