Two individuals have lost their lives following a helicopter collision with a barge on the Mississippi River.
The unfortunate incident occurred when the helicopter struck power lines, causing it to crash into the barge.
Thick gray smoke was observed rising from the barge in the tragedy’s aftermath.
A fire erupted on the vessel following the terrifying crash.
Dramatic footage captures the grim aftermath, with smoke pouring into the sky.
A widely circulated video on social media reveals the alarming moment when a fireball consumed the barge.
The incident took place around Alton in St Charles County, Missouri, at around 11.05am on Thursday.
The barge had been stationed close to Maple Island.
“The helicopter was just working on these powerlines. The powerline blew up,” said a person recording the footage.
“There was a pilot, there was a worker. It’s exploding right now.”
The ensuing blaze was put out quickly, according to Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Investigators are currently establishing if anyone was on board the barge at the time of the crash.
However, it is believed that there was not, according to First Alert 4.
The Illinois State Police Department has said the Lewis and Clark Bridge will be closed for an undetermined amount of time.
The crash is under investigation by the Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board.
Investigators from these agencies are set to arrive and begin their work on Friday.
An Ameren spokesperson has told First Alert 4 that a contractor and a subcontractor were repairing tower lighting at the time of the crash.
“We are saddened about today’s tragic incident,” the spokesperson said.
“Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the victims’ families and colleagues.
“We will cooperate with the investigation.”
Anyone who witnessed the crash is urged to contact the National Transportation Safety Board via witness@ntsb.gov.
