Investigation underway into deadly helicopter crash in Lafourche Parish

The Lafourche Parish Sheriff's Office is currently investigating a tragic helicopter crash that occurred in Thibodaux on Wednesday, July 23, resulting in the death of the pilot due to injuries sustained. The crash took place approximately a mile off on Louisiana Highway 308 and Thibodaux in a sugar cane field, just south of Laurel Valley. The helicopter, owned by JBI Helicopter Services in Abbeville, was being operated by a pilot in their 60s who was spraying the field when the crash occurred. Law enforcement officials suspect that the crash may have been caused by the helicopter coming into contact with a utility line. The Sheriff's Office expressed that flying helicopters for agricultural purposes, such as spraying sugar cane fields, can be dangerous due to the need for precision in maneuvering in close quarters. Sheriff Craig Webre noted that some local farmers are considering switching to drones for spraying due to the increased safety they offer. The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation into the crash, which is expected to take some time. Parish President Archie Chassion asked for the community to keep the pilot's family in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult period, while emphasizing the importance of avoiding such tragic incidents. The NTSB is set to begin their documentation of the crash site and examination of the helicopter tomorrow, with findings to be released upon completion of the investigation. WGNO's reporting team will provide updates as new details become available.