Two workers died Thursday after their helicopter crashed into power lines, hit a barge, and caught fire near East Alton, Illinois, just north of St. Louis along the Mississippi River. The crash sent thick black smoke into the sky and led to several explosions, witnesses said.
The helicopter crew was performing repairs on powerline tower lighting and marker balls, working for a contractor connected to the power company Ameren. No one on the barge was hurt, and no other injuries have been reported.
Adam Briggs, who was fishing nearby, watched as the helicopter flew back and forth across the river. He said the pilot was picking up a worker with a marker ball when suddenly the helicopter broke apart and fell onto the barge. “I was in shock,” Briggs said, describing the frightening scene. He called 911 and recorded the crash as flames engulfed the wreckage.
Officials have not released the names of the two workers who died. Ameren expressed condolences to the families and coworkers of the victims. Aviation experts note that while helicopters often work near power lines, deadly accidents like this are fortunately rare.
The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the crash. An NTSB investigator is expected to arrive on site Friday. Investigators will likely look into weather conditions, possible wind gusts, and whether the contractor followed proper safety measures.
Power lines are notoriously hard for pilots to see, especially when they are hovering close to the ground or water. Experts remind everyone of the dangers these workers face daily. “It takes a brave person to do this kind of job,” Briggs said.
Emergency crews from both Illinois and Missouri responded quickly, arriving by boat to fight the fire. A private tugboat helped put out the flames. The river has been closed to commercial traffic while the incident is cleared.
This tragedy highlights the risks involved in maintaining critical infrastructure that keeps electricity flowing safely. Those who work in these conditions do so with courage and skill, often behind the scenes.
The investigation continues as the community mourns the loss of two of its own.