A Tennessee Highway Patrol trooper and Marion County Sheriff's deputy were killed when their helicopter crashed after hitting a powerline on Tuesday afternoon, according to official reports.
Tennessee Highway Patrol officials confirmed the deaths during a press conference held that same day.
The crash site was in Marion County, situated in the state's southeast region near Chattanooga. While names have not been officially released by the respective departments, the Scott County Sheriff’s Office did identify the trooper in the crash as Sgt. Lee Russell.
According to WVLT News, the FAA reported the helicopter was a Bell 206 helicopter, which had crashed in a wooded area on Aetna Mountain after striking the power line. Officials stated the helicopter was later recovered.
The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board are covering the investigation.
