At least 4 dead after helicopters collide on the Gold Coast near SeaWorld in Australia: report

At least four people are dead after two helicopters collided on Australia’s Gold Coast near a SeaWorld theme park late Sunday night, according to reports.

Queensland Police confirmed the crash via Twitter, but did not provide details.

“Seaworld Drive in Main Beach has been closed off due to a helicopter crash. Motorists and pedestrians are urged to avoid the area,” the agency said in its tweet.

The Queensland Ambulance Service said 13 patients were being assessed and six were taken to area hospitals, according to 9News Australia. 

Police confirmed to the outlet that one of the helicopters was able to land successfully after the aircraft “came into contact with each other.” 

Pictures and video from the scene show wreckage covering a sand island close to the coast. Numerous emergency personnel were seen on the sand island assisting with the incident.

Remains of a helicopter
Emergency service workers survey remains of one of the helicopters.
ABC News (Australia)

It’s unclear what led to the crash. 

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau was investigating the collision, chief commissioner Angus Mitchell said.

Officials work the scene of the helicopter crash.
Three patients were being assessed and six were taken to area hospitals.
ABC News (Australia)

The Gold Coast region is at its busiest in January, the peak time for holidays in Australia’s summer.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

source: nypost.com