A tragic helicopter crash in Fukuoka Prefecture claimed the lives of two people on Sunday. The incident occurred in the city of Yanagawa, where a local passerby reported the crash and smoke rising from the site to fire authorities around 4:15 p.m.
The victims, identified as a 50-year-old pilot and a 70-year-old mechanic who worked for SGC Saga Aviation, were confirmed dead at the scene. The Robinson R44 helicopter, operated by the company, had taken off from Saga Airport for a pleasure flight but lost contact before crashing.
Authorities are now investigating the cause of the crash, with the Japan Transport Safety Board leading the inquiry. The crash site, located southwest of Yanagawa Station, has left a community in mourning over the loss of the two employees.