The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau confirmed on Saturday that it has received the preliminary report from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board concerning the helicopter crash that resulted in the tragic demise of Dr. Herbert Wigwe, former Group CEO of Access Bank, and five others.
In a statement, NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Bimbo Oladeji, revealed that the accident occurred on February 9 and involved an Airbus Helicopter EC130B4 in Halloran Springs, California.
Preliminary findings from the NTSB suggest that adverse weather conditions led to catastrophic damage, causing the helicopter to catch fire before the crash.
Oladeji provided key details from the preliminary report, stating, “The preliminary report on the Airbus Helicopter EC130B4 outlines crucial details surrounding the tragic incident.
“Departing from Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, California, the helicopter journeyed to Boulder City Municipal Airport in Nevada via Palm Springs International Airport. However, during its flight, adverse weather conditions characterized by rain and a mix of snow were encountered, as reported by witnesses.”
Reports from law enforcement and eyewitnesses indicated that individuals along Interstate 15 observed a “fireball,” prompting emergency calls. The wreckage was discovered in the high, mountainous desert near Halloran Springs, California.
Analysis of the accident site revealed a scattered debris pattern, a ground crater, and thermal damage to debris and vegetation. Major helicopter components were identified, with the fuselage fragmented and the cockpit and cabin destroyed.
The Director-General of NSIB, Capt. Alex Badeh, expressed gratitude for the cooperation extended by the NTSB. NSIB remains dedicated to collaborating with relevant authorities to gather additional evidence and information as the investigation progresses.
The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau confirmed on Saturday that it has received the preliminary report from the U.S. National Transportation Safety Board concerning the helicopter crash that resulted in the tragic demise of Dr. Herbert Wigwe, former Group CEO of Access Bank, and five others.
In a statement, NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Bimbo Oladeji, revealed that the accident occurred on February 9 and involved an Airbus Helicopter EC130B4 in Halloran Springs, California.
Preliminary findings from the NTSB suggest that adverse weather conditions led to catastrophic damage, causing the helicopter to catch fire before the crash.
Oladeji provided key details from the preliminary report, stating, “The preliminary report on the Airbus Helicopter EC130B4 outlines crucial details surrounding the tragic incident. Departing from Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, California, the helicopter journeyed to Boulder City Municipal Airport in Nevada via Palm Springs International Airport. However, during its flight, adverse weather conditions characterized by rain and a mix of snow were encountered, as reported by witnesses.”
Reports from law enforcement and eyewitnesses indicated that individuals along Interstate 15 observed a “fireball,” prompting emergency calls. The wreckage was discovered in the high, mountainous desert near Halloran Springs, California.
Analysis of the accident site revealed a scattered debris pattern, a ground crater, and thermal damage to debris and vegetation. Major helicopter components were identified, with the fuselage fragmented and the cockpit and cabin destroyed.
The Director-General of NSIB, Capt. Alex Badeh, expressed gratitude for the cooperation extended by the NTSB. NSIB remains dedicated to collaborating with relevant authorities to gather additional evidence and information as the investigation progresses.
