A medical transport helicopter tragically crashed in Madison County, Mississippi on Monday, resulting in the deaths of three individuals on board, including the pilot and two hospital workers.
The helicopter, operated by AirCare, was returning to Columbus from a patient transport mission when the crash occurred around 12:30 p.m.. According to Dr. LouAnn Woodward, the Vice Chancellor for Health Affairs at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, all three people on board were killed.
“This is a tragic loss, and the entire Medical Center family is heartbroken over this,” Woodward said during a press conference.
This incident marks the first crash in 29 years of service for AirCare, which has been providing emergency transport services in Mississippi since its inception. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other relevant authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the crash, though the university has not yet provided specific details.
Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves expressed his condolences, acknowledging the significant risks faced by the state’s first responders. He stated on Facebook, “This is a tragic reminder of the risks Mississippi’s first responders take every day to keep us safe. Our state will never forget the sacrifice of these heroes.”
While the families of the victims have been notified, authorities have not released the names of those killed to respect their privacy during this difficult time.
In January 2025, a Learjet 55 on a medical assignment crashed in Northeast Philadelphia, erupting into a fiery explosion upon impact, according to officials.
The plane, which departed from Northeast Philadelphia Airport and was bound for Springfield-Branson National Airport in Missouri, went down near Cottman Avenue and Roosevelt Boulevard just after 6 p.m.
Authorities confirmed six people were on board, including a pilot, medic, flight crew members, and possibly a patient. While multiple casualties have been reported, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker did not confirm an exact number.
“We’re just asking for prayers for any and everyone who may have been affected,” Parker said, urging residents to stay away from the crash site.
