Seven killed in wildfire helicopter crash in Argentina

Seven individuals, including firefighters, police, and civil protection personnel, perished in a helicopter crash on Wednesday while engaged in wildfire suppression efforts in western Argentina. The incident occurred in the Ischigualasto natural park region of San Juan province, a remote and challenging area.

The Bell 412 helicopter lost contact with authorities on Wednesday morning. The Federal Emergencies Agency (AFE) reported that another aircraft located the crash site later in the day, confirming the tragic loss of life. Provincial Governor Marcelo Orrego confirmed the fatalities, expressing deep sorrow over the incident.

According to the AFE, the helicopter was being used for training purposes in San Juan and was en route to the neighboring province of La Rioja to assist with a forest fire. The last communication with the aircraft was recorded at 10:26 AM local time. The AFE has stated that the causes of the crash are currently under investigation. Rescue teams were dispatched to the isolated crash site, which local media described as difficult to access.

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sadly, seven people lost their lives