Oregon Pilot and Three Niece Die in Arizona Helicopter Crash

URGENT UPDATE: A tragic helicopter crash in Arizona has claimed the lives of an Oregon pilot and three of his nieces. The Pinal County Sheriff’s Office reports that the incident occurred at approximately 11 a.m. on Friday in the mountainous region near Telegraph Canyon, east of Phoenix.

Officials indicate that the helicopter, piloted by David McCarty, 59, collided with a recreational slackline strung across the mountains. Eyewitness accounts suggest the helicopter struck the line before plummeting into a canyon. The crash has devastated the McCarty family, with relatives confirming the identities of the deceased: Katelyn Heideman, 22, Rachel McCarty, 23, and Faith McCarty, 21.

Family member Elizabeth Gallup shared the heartbreaking news on social media, urging prayers for the family as they process this profound loss. “Please continue to pray over every single family member as we process this heartbreak,” she wrote, expressing the family’s need for support during this difficult time.

David McCarty owned Columbia Basin Helicopters, based in La Grande, Oregon. While it is unclear if the helicopter involved was part of his business, records confirm he held a pilot’s license registered to Baker City. The helicopter had taken off from Pegasus Airpark in Queen Creek, Arizona shortly before the accident.

The International Slackline Association has reported that they informed the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) about the slackline, which was suspended around 600 feet above the ground. Fortunately, there were no individuals on the slackline at the time of the crash.

The FAA and the National Transportation Safety Board are actively investigating the cause of this devastating accident. They previously issued warnings to aviators about the area where the slackline was located, emphasizing the potential hazards to aircraft.

As this story develops, officials urge anyone who may have information about the crash to come forward. The community mourns the loss of these young lives and their beloved uncle, as friends and family seek answers in this tragic event.

Stay tuned for updates as authorities continue their investigation into this heartbreaking incident.