Good Samaritans are being credited with saving the life of a pilot who was trapped in a burning helicopter after the aircraft crashed in the woods of Danbury, New Hampshire on Saturday, authorities said.
New Hampshire State Police troopers along with members of the police and fire departments in Danbury responded to a report of a helicopter crash at 208 Dean Road in Danbury around 12:45 p.m. Saturday, according to a statement from state police.
An initial investigation indicated the pilot lost control near a landing site and crashed into the wood line of the residential property, state police’s statement said.
The aircraft caught on fire. Flames then spread to the woods, but firefighters were able to extinguish them, according to a statement from the Danbury Police Department.
The pilot, the only person inside the helicopter at the time of the crash, suffered injuries, but he was conscious, breathing and alert. He was taken by ambulance to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, New Hampshire for treatment, state police said.
It was later revealed the pilot was able to partially get out of the helicopter after crashing into the woods. Witnesses who heard the crash went to the area, freed him completely from the burning aircraft and gave him medical aid until first responders arrived, according to the department.
“The witnesses actions were instrumental in saving the solo occupant’s life,” the department said.
State police did not immediately release the name of the pilot to the public.
Anyone who may have witnessed the helicopter crash or who has additional information should contact the Danbury Police Department.
The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board are leading the investigation into the circumstances of the crash.
