Two Workers Killed in Major Illinois Helicopter Crash

When it comes to fatal workplace accidents, helicopter crashes are relatively rare. After all, not many workers operate in helicopters on a daily basis. But when these accidents occur, they draw attention to the various safety risks associated with helicopters. Even within the past few years, helicopter crashes seem to be occurring with alarming frequency throughout not just Illinois, but across the nation. What can you do if your loved one died in a helicopter crash? Could a workers’ compensation claim in Chicago be possible?

Helicopter Hit Power Lines Before Crashing into Barge

Officials say a helicopter operated by an electricity company clipped nearby power lines before crashing into a barge. The incident occurred in Madison County by the Mississippi River. After the crash, the barge burst into flames and sent columns of thick black smoke into the air. Two people on board the helicopter lost their lives. One of these individuals was a direct employee of the electricity company, while the other was described as a “subcontractor.”

One can only assume that one of the victims was the pilot of the helicopter, since all reports indicate that no one on board the aircraft survived. Before the crash, the helicopter had just dropped off two other workers on ground level. The workers then watched as the helicopter crew attempted to attach high-visibility balls to the power line. Something went wrong, and the helicopter came into contact with the power lines.

Investigators are still attempting to determine how the helicopter crashed into the power lines. Various agencies are now looking into the helicopter company that served as a subcontractor for the electricity company. The investigators are also looking into the pilot and are reviewing their records. Finally, the maintenance records of the helicopter are also of interest. There is obviously a possibility that the helicopter crashed due to some kind of mechanical failure.

This is the latest in a series of high-profile helicopter crashes throughout the country. A similar incident occurred in Manhattan, claiming the lives of several people. Another notable helicopter crash involved a military Blackhawk gunship colliding with a civilian aircraft in Washington, D.C. There are obvious safety hazards associated with helicopters, and one has to wonder whether new drone technology can perform the same tasks with less risk to human workers.

Can I File a Workers’ Compensation Claim in Chicago?

To answer this question, you may need to speak with a workers’ compensation lawyer in Chicago. These legal professionals can guide you toward the financial support you need. If you have survived a helicopter crash, you may need compensation for permanent disabilities, lost future income, and other damages. If you are mourning the loss of a loved one after a helicopter crash, a workers’ comp lawyer can also help you pursue compensation. Note that a personal injury lawsuit could be possible in this scenario. Don’t hesitate to discuss your options with Connolly Injury Law today.

Sources: 

theintelligencer.com/news/article/edwardsville-jf-electric-alton-il-helicopter-crash-20808830.php

military.com/daily-news/2025/07/30/ntsb-finds-army-black-hawk-fatal-midair-crash-plane-was-above-altitude-limit.html