LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Authorities are investigating a fatal helicopter crash that happened near Owenton, Kentucky on Monday.
According to the Federal Aviation Administration, a Bell 206 helicopter crashed around 6 p.m. with three people on board.
The Owenton, Owen County and Owen County Rescue Departments said the crash happened on East Highway 22, not too far from the Amigo Owenton restaurant.
“Firefighters have been deployed to prevent unauthorized access. We kindly request your cooperation in avoiding the area,” the department said.
An Air Evac Lifeteam spokesperson told WHAS11 News that the crew died in the crash. They said the crew was based out of Grant County, Kentucky, and were on their way to pick up a patient.
"This was a terribly tragic accident, and our deepest sympathies go out to the employees’ families and friends," they said. "Our primary focus now is on supporting the families who were impacted as well as our team members. Critical incident stress management teams have been sent to assist our team members during this difficult time."
Kentucky State Police have identified the crew members as Gale Alleman, Bethany Aicken and James Welsh.
Owen Electric Cooperative said the crash knocked out power to part of the county, but it's since been restored.
The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board will handle the investigation.
Owenton is about 75 miles northeast of Louisville.
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