A devastating helicopter crash on Sacramento's Highway 50 has left a medical crew in mourning and a community searching for answers. According to a preliminary report from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) obtained by ABC10, the REACH medical helicopter that crashed shortly after takeoff from UC Davis Medical Center last month lost power while en route to McClellan Airfield. The three-person crew included flight paramedic Margaret “Dede” Davis, who noticed the helicopter's power failing and subsequently spiraled toward the highway.
The crash resulted in the tragic loss of life. Flight nurse Suzie Smith succumbed to her injuries days following the incident. The pilot, Chad Millward, and paramedic Davis were seriously injured but have since been released from the hospital. An examination of the crash site revealed an outer portion of the main rotor blade had broken off, as detailed by a CBS News Sacramento report, which was found lodged in the roof of a nearby home’s garage.
Miraculously, there were no injuries reported on the ground amidst the harrowing descent onto the crowded highway. Initial findings by the NTSB suggest that the helicopter reached a maximum altitude of approximately 500 feet before the crash, as per a report by CBS News Sacramento. The incident notably snarled traffic for hours, with one lane eventually reopening to motorists.
In the aftermath of the crash, an outpouring of community support emerged. Sacramento Mayor Kevin McCarty highlighted the efforts of about 15 bystanders who assisted firefighters on the scene, according to Hoodline. Responses by local authorities and the public showcased the city's resilience and strong community spirit in the face of tragedy. REACH Air Medical Services has committed to diligently working to understand the chain of events leading up to the crash. As their statement echoes, "We appreciate the concern and support from our community and will share updates when appropriate."
