1 dead, 2 missing as helicopter crashes off coast of Hawaii

By Gozde Bayar

ANKARA (AA) – One person was confirmed dead and two others went missing Thursday following a helicopter crash into the ocean off the US state of Hawaii, police said.

The helicopter, belonging to the Ali‘i Kaua‘i Air Tours and Charters, crashed into the waters about a quarter of a mile off the Na Pali Coast.

Kaua‘i Police Department said in a statement that it received the report of the incident at approximately 1:20 p.m. local time (23:30 GMT).

Hikers along the Kalalau Trail witnessed the helicopter crash and reported the incident to police Thursday afternoon, according to the statement.

“Our hearts go out to the families impacted by this tragedy. We will continue working with our partners to locate the missing individuals and provide support during this difficult time,” said police chief Todd Raybuck. “Our multi-agency response remains focused on the search and recovery efforts.”

Mayor Derek Kawakami also offered his condolences to the families. “While we do not know all the details surrounding the incident at this time, we do know that our first responders are doing everything they can in this emergency operation. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of all involved,” he said.