SACRAMENTO, CA – A medical helicopter crash on Highway 50 Thursday evening left three crew members critically injured and caused significant traffic disruptions. The accident occurred shortly after 7 p.m. near the 59th Street exit, impacting the eastbound lanes.
The helicopter, carrying a pilot, nurse, and paramedic, was the only vehicle involved. Thankfully, no injuries were reported on the ground. The three onboard were quickly transported to a nearby hospital in critical condition.
Dramatic footage shared online showed the helicopter descending rapidly before crashing. The video captured the moment the rotor blades halted, followed by a cloud of white smoke. Firefighters confirmed that no fire ensued from the crash.
Rescue operations were challenging as one victim was trapped beneath the helicopter. A firefighter captain, with limited resources initially on scene, enlisted the help of nearby civilians to lift the wreckage and free the trapped individual for transport to medical care.
Highway 50 remains closed in the eastbound direction, leading to heavy traffic congestion. The California Highway Patrol is redirecting vehicles and advising drivers to avoid the area as cleanup continues. The westbound lanes have also experienced delays.
Investigations into the cause of the crash are ongoing, with federal agencies expected to conduct a thorough examination. The community has rallied around the injured crew, expressing appreciation for the swift response of emergency personnel and civilians.
This incident highlights the vital role of coordinated emergency efforts and the resilience of the community in responding to unexpected crises.