4 killed in helicopter crash in Slovakia

Four people were killed when an emergency helicopter crashed in Central Slovakia on Thursday.

Three crew members and a 38-year-old patient were killed when the Air-Transport Europe (ATE) emergency helicopter crashed in the village of Strelniky, ATE spokesperson Zuzana Hopjakova confirmed.

"It's been confirmed that rescue units have found the wreck of the helicopter and four bodies without any signs of life," said the spokesperson, adding that the cause of the crash is still unknown.

Apart from the patient, the Bell 249 helicopter was carrying pilot Jan Rusin, doctor Patricia Krajnakova and rescue worker Frantisek Bartos.

"The helicopter's pilot Jan Rusin was 50 years old. During his career he had racked up more than 4,640 flying hours and so was among the most experienced pilots of the company," said Hopjakova.

"Physician Patricia Krajnakova was 46 years old and had been flying in the helicopter since 2014. There was also 32-year-old rescuer Frantisek Bartos, who previously worked as an aircraft mechanic but became a rescuer in 2009," explained Hopjakova.

The medical team members lost their lives while pursuing their arduous calling of helping and rescuing people in distress.

"Their commitment and hard work deserves our unfathomable thanks and respect," added Hopjakova. 

Source : XINHUA