Seven killed in Argentina helicopter crash

Seven emergency personnel were killed after a firefighting helicopter crashed in Argentina's western San Juan province

Seven emergency personnel were killed after a firefighting helicopter crashed in Argentina’s western San Juan province while responding to a forest fire, authorities said.

The Bell 412 helicopter had been deployed for wildfire response operations and was travelling to neighbouring La Rioja province to assist in controlling a major forest fire when the accident occurred.

Officials said the aircraft lost contact with its base shortly after take-off on Wednesday morning, prompting an emergency response.

San Juan Governor Marcelo Orrego confirmed that all seven people on board lost their lives in the crash.

The victims included members of the civil protection department, firefighters and senior police officials who were involved in emergency response operations.

The governor expressed deep sorrow over the tragedy and extended condolences to the families of those who died while serving in the line of duty.

Emergency teams were dispatched to the crash site, while authorities secured the area and began recovery operations.

Officials have launched an investigation to determine what caused the helicopter to crash. No official findings have yet been released.

The Bell 412 helicopter was part of the province’s aerial firefighting fleet and was regularly used to support operations against wildfires in the region.

The incident has shocked emergency services across Argentina, with tributes pouring in for the personnel who lost their lives during the mission.