SPRING BRANCH, Texas — A federal investigation is now underway into Monday afternoon’s helicopter crash that claimed the lives of two people in Spring Branch, located about 30 miles north of San Antonio.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has opened an investigation into the crash involving a Hummingbird 260L, deemed an “experimental, amateur-build helicopter.” The victims were later identified as 43-year-old Kevin Lee Berry and 62-year-old Richard Scott Herr.
Investigators deployed to the crash site Tuesday where wreckage could be seen in the front yard of a home along the 600 block of Lantana Ridge. The wreckage will be recovered and moved to a secure facility, NTSB officials told KENS 5 in an emailed statement.
The federal investigation will focus on gathering flight track data, recorded air traffic control communications, weather conditions the day of the crash, and delving into the history of the pilot’s flight history and credentials.
Witnesses to the crash and those who have video of what happened are urged to contact the NTSB at witness@ntsb.gov.
While Alice Sweany didn’t witness the crash herself, she’s still devastated by the destruction and loss of life.
“I’m heartbroken for such a tragic incident," said Sweany, who's lived in the neighborhood since 2009. "The two lives that were lost, it’s just hard to imagine. It’s devastating to have this happen in our neighborhood or any neighborhood."
A preliminary report is expected to be released within 30 days of the crash. The NTSB’s full report will be completed within 12 to 24 months.
>TRENDING ON KENS 5 YOUTUBE:
---
Since going on the air in 1950, KENS 5 has strived to be the best, most trusted news and entertainment source for generations of San Antonians.
KENS 5 has brought numerous firsts to South Texas television, including being the first local station with a helicopter, the first with its own Doppler radar and the first to air a local morning news program.
Over the years, KENS 5 has worked to transform local news. Our cameras have been the lens bringing history into local viewers' homes. We're proud of our legacy as we serve San Antonians today.
Today, KENS 5 continues to set the standard in local broadcasting and is recognized by its peers for excellence and innovation. The KENS 5 News team focuses on stories that really matter to our community.
You can find KENS 5 in more places than ever before, including KENS5.com, the KENS 5 app, the KENS 5 YouTube channel, KENS 5's Roku and Fire TV apps, and across social media on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and more!
Want to get in touch with someone at KENS 5? You can send a message using our Contacts page or email one of our team members.