A tragic incident occurred on Monday morning near Fort Lauderdale as a medical rescue helicopter caught fire and crashed into an apartment complex shortly after takeoff. The crash resulted in the death of a paramedic captain on board and a resident on the ground, while two others on board and two individuals at the apartment complex were injured. The Broward County Fire-Rescue captain, Terryson Jackson, who had served the department for 19 years, and a woman died when the helicopter crashed through the roof of the apartment complex. Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony expressed his condolences, stating that Jackson was one of the best in the profession and had a deep dedication to his work.

Two people in Florida were killed after a helicopter crash in Broward County. Dramatic footage captured the moment the aircraft smashed into a building, leaving a smouldering hole in its roof.

An air rescue flight paramedic and a resident of the apartment building were killed in… pic.twitter.com/XMTh1c9asm

— dana (@dana916) August 28, 2023

The injured individuals were identified as pilot Daron Roche and firefighter-paramedic Mike Chaguaceda. They were taken to the hospital and are expected to survive. The names of the deceased woman and the injured individuals were not released. The three-member crew was on their way to an emergency medical rescue when the helicopter caught fire and broke apart. Videos posted online show the helicopter engulfed in flames and spiraling downwards before crashing. Despite the dire situation, the crew members were still communicating with paramedics at the scene of the medical emergency, ensuring that the patient would still receive the necessary care.

Eyewitnesses described the horrifying scene, with one neighbor seeing black smoke and hearing loud explosions as the helicopter lost control and crashed into the apartment building. Another neighbor rushed to help and witnessed the firefighters crawling out of the wreckage onto a roof. Despite their fortunate escape, the two men mentioned that they had sustained possible broken ribs. Authorities have reported that the helicopter experienced engine failure, leading to the crash.

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are currently investigating the incident. This tragedy serves as a reminder of the risks that first responders face every day as they tirelessly work to save lives. The community mourns the loss of Captain Terryson Jackson and sends their thoughts and prayers to all those affected by this devastating event.