A helicopter pilot fighting bushfires in Tasmania’s north has died after the aircraft he was flying crashed in a paddock on Monday afternoon.
Police and emergency services were called to Pipers Brook, in the state’s north-east, about 3.20pm following reports of an aircraft crash near Lebrina.
A stock image of a helicopter dumping water near a Tasmanian fire in 2020.
The pilot, a 41-year-old man from northern Tasmania and the single occupant of the helicopter, was critically injured and died at the scene.
In a statement, Tasmania Police said initial investigations suggested the man was undertaking duties relating to fighting fires in the Lebrina area when he crashed in the paddock.
The Australian Transport Safety Bureau has been notified of the incident and will undertake an investigation into the crash.
Tasmania Fire Service acting Deputy Chief Jeff Harper described the event as a tragic incident and sent his condolences to the man’s family.
“Our thoughts are also with our people and others who have been working very closely with the man involved to help fight the Lebrina fires,” Mr Harper said.
“It is a very tragic situation, especially because it has involved someone who was working hard to fight the Lebrina fires to help [keep] our community safe.
“Understandably this is a very distressing incident for everyone involved, and we will be ensuring our people have access to all available support.”
Mr Harper said the fire service would work with the police and the Australian Transport Safety Bureau to ensure the crash is fully investigated.
Tasmania Police will prepare a report for the coroner.
Anyone with information who may have seen the helicopter near Pipers Brook just before the crash should contact Launceston Police on 131 444 or call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. Alternatively, they can report the information online anonymously.
More to come.
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