Vanderbilt LifeFlight helicopter crashes in Tennessee, one dead, two critically injured

LEBANON, TENNESSEE: A Vanderbilt LifeFlight helicopter crashed on Saturday, November 9, killing one crew member and critically injuring two others. Officials said the aircraft, an Airbus EC130T2, had three crew members on board when it went down shortly after 2:30 pm.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has opened an investigation into the crash, Fox News Digital confirmed. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Wilson County Sheriff’s Office did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Reports indicate that no patients were on board the helicopter at the time of the incident.

The crash occurred near the 7100 block of Cairo Bend Drive, according to WSMV. Authorities have not released the name of the crew member who died.

Vanderbilt University Medical Center mourns crew loss, confirms critical injuries

Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) released a statement: "Vanderbilt University Medical Center is deeply saddened to confirm that a Vanderbilt LifeFlight helicopter was involved in an accident this afternoon in Wilson County. Three crew members were on board. Tragically, one crew member lost their life, and two others are in critical condition and receiving care at Vanderbilt University Hospital. No patients were on board at the time of the incident. Our hearts and deepest sympathies are with our Vanderbilt LifeFlight colleagues, their families, and loved ones during this difficult time."

A Vanderbilt spokesperson told Fox News Digital, "Our hearts and deepest sympathies are with our Vanderbilt LifeFlight colleagues, their families, and loved ones during this difficult time."

U.S. Representative Scott DesJarlais wrote on Twitter, "Please join Amy and I in praying for those involved in the LifeFlight helicopter crash in Wilson County. Seek alternate routes to avoid the area so that Emergency Services personnel can continue to work."

Wilson County residents recount shocking scene after helicopter crash

Residents in Wilson County expressed shock and concern after the crash. One neighbor said, “It’s just crazy to think this actually happened in our backyard. I just can’t believe it. You don’t usually see police out here, so when I came over that hill, every single agency was out here, investigating or whatever. It was just wild."

Another resident, describing the scene shortly after the helicopter went down, said, “I talked to one of my neighbors, and he saw everything happen. He helped get the pilot and co-pilot out. The helicopter was lying on its side, almost rolled over. It didn’t catch fire, but it was clearly badly damaged. You could tell it had wrecked.”