Emergency crews are on the scene after a helicopter crash on eastbound Highway 50 in East Sacramento, resulting in multiple injuries and the closure of a major highway. The incident, which occurred just after 7 p.m. Monday, has led to heavy traffic congestion in both directions. The California Highway Patrol and Sacramento Fire Department are working to respond to the crash, with initial reports indicating that the crash has prompted an immediate emergency response.
A spokesperson for Mayor Kevin McCarty’s office confirmed that there were survivors, though details about the number of injured and the severity of their injuries remain under investigation. The crash has prompted a significant response from first responders and local law enforcement, with authorities urging the public to avoid the area due to ongoing cleanup efforts. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, with officials working to determine the circumstances that led to the incident.
Sacramento City Councilmember Lisa Kaplan shared photos and a statement on X following the aftermath from above while flying with the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office. “Tonight, I flew along with Sac Sheriff in their helicopter. Every day is not a given. We were one of the first to show up at the helicopter crash from above. It was sobering. I pray for all in the crash. Thank our officers and all who pilot for their public service,” Kaplan wrote.
A statement provided to Fox News Digital from Mayor McCarty’s office called the crash “harrowing” and praised both emergency crews and citizens who stepped in to help before additional units arrived.
“There has been a harrowing helicopter crash on 50 eastbound west of 59th Street. Thank you to our brave first responders and ~15 bystanders who assisted the Sacramento Fire Department until more units arrived on scene,” the statement read.
Photos from traffic cameras show heavy congestion in both directions as a result of the crash. The incident is being closely monitored by local authorities, with updates expected as the investigation progresses. Fox News Digital has reached out to the Sacramento Fire Department for further comment, but the agency has not immediately responded.
It remains unclear how long the highway closure will last, but authorities are urging the public to avoid the area, noting that cleanup could take several hours. The incident has raised questions about public safety, particularly concerning the use of helicopters in densely populated areas. The cause of the crash remains under investigation, with officials working to determine the circumstances that led to the incident. The impact of the crash on local traffic and emergency services is still being assessed, with further developments expected as the situation unfolds.