A firefighting helicopter crash in southeastern Brazil’s Minas Gerais state has left six dead, including four firefighters, a nurse, and a doctor. The crew was part of a mission to locate a small plane that had earlier crashed near the historic town of Ouro Preto, authorities confirmed Saturday.
🚨 What happened? The helicopter vanished Friday afternoon after takeoff. After an intense search, rescue teams found the wreckage early Saturday. Lieutenant Henrique Barcellos of Minas Gerais Fire Department called it a “devastating loss for first responders and the community.”
🌎 Why it matters: Brazil has faced increasing wildfire challenges in recent years, making firefighting crews essential for protecting vulnerable regions. This tragedy highlights the risks emergency teams face daily.
💬 Local impact: Ouro Preto, a UNESCO World Heritage site, relies heavily on air support during emergencies due to its mountainous terrain. Residents shared tributes online, calling the crew “heroes in the skies.”
An investigation into the crash is ongoing. Stay tuned for updates.
