Helicopter crash: Pilot dead and second victim killed on ground, confirm police

Wednesday, January 16, 2013
11:47 AM

The second victim of this morning’s helicopter crash in central London was killed on the ground, the emergency services have said.

The scene on the ground after a helicopter crashed into a construction crane on top of St George's Wharf tower building. Picture: Lewis Whyld/PA Wire

Two people died after the aircraft hit a crane on top of a building in the Vauxhall area of central London at 8am this morning.

Speaking at a news conference at the scene of the tragedy, Police Commander Neil Basu confirmed two people had died and included the pilot,

An ambulance spokeswoman was unable to confirm whether the second victim was a passer-by but would say the person was “in close proximity” to the wreckage. More details are expected to be released once the victim’s family has been informed. Commander Basu said it would be “inappropriate” to say anything else until then.

The ambulance spokeswoman added that five people suffered minor injuries and were being treated in hospital. Four others were treated at the scene.

It was also confirmed that the aircraft was on a scheduled commercial flight on route between Redhill airfield, Surrey, and Elstree. It is thought the pilot was looking for a landing pad but police would not say whether it was looking to land in Battersea.

“The important thing is to restore London back to normaility as soon as possible,” added Commander Basu.