A helicopter crash in Cairns, Australia, resulted in the tragic death of the pilot and a significant emergency response. The incident occurred on Monday around 1:50 a.m. local time, when the helicopter crashed into the roof of the DoubleTree by Hilton hotel, sparking a fire that led to the evacuation of hundreds of guests. Local police confirmed that the pilot was the sole occupant of the aircraft and was found deceased at the scene. Forensic investigations are currently underway to formally identify him.
Emergency services reported that one of the helicopter's blades fell into the hotel swimming pool, while another propeller landed on the esplanade in front of the hotel. Fortunately, none of the guests or individuals on the ground sustained injuries, although two people were taken to the hospital in stable condition. The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has dispatched investigators to the crash site to determine the cause of this tragic incident, which has shocked the local community. Cairns, known for its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, is a popular tourist destination in Queensland.