Helicopter Crashes Into Barge On Mississippi River Leaving Two Dead

Photo: Perry Spring / iStock / Getty Images

A tragic helicopter crash on Thursday (August 7) resulted in the deaths of two people after the aircraft struck power lines and crashed into a barge on the Mississippi River near West Alton, Missouri. The incident occurred around 11 a.m., causing a fire on the barge, which was quickly extinguished, according to the Alton Fire Department.

The helicopter, operated by an Ameren contractor and subcontractor, was involved in repairing and replacing tower lighting when it hit the power lines. The crash led to the temporary closure of the Lewis and Clark Bridge into Illinois, with no clear timeline for reopening, as reported by the Illinois State Police.

The St. Charles County Police Department confirmed the fatalities but did not specify whether the victims were aboard the helicopter or on the barge. Video footage shared by witnesses with KMOV showed thick smoke rising from the scene. Adam Briggs, a witness, described the helicopter exploding and crashing into the barge, prompting him to call 911.

Both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are investigating the incident. The FAA arrived on the scene Thursday afternoon, while NTSB investigators are expected to begin their work on Friday (August 8).


View Full Site