Helicopter crashes in Martinsville

Monday, August 10, 2009
Authorities investigate the crash of a Brantly B2B twin seat helicopter flown by Mark McDaniel Sunday in Martinsville. The Indiana State Police secured the scene until the arrival of FAA officials.

MARTINSVILLE -- Indiana State Police and Martinsville City Police responded to a report of a helicopter crash Sunday at 11:30 a.m. on the west side of Martinsville behind Spring Lake apartment complex, located on Lake Shore Drive.

When officers arrived, they were met by the pilot, Mark O. McDaniel, 50, of Martinsville, walking away from the wreckage. McDaniel was examined at the scene by medical personnel and released.

McDaniel stated he was flying south bound in the Brantly B2B twin seat helicopter and performing auto rotations when he lost control of the aircraft and crashed in the bean field approximately 200 yards behind the apartments. Witnesses observed the helicopter go into a spin before the crash.

The Indiana State Police will maintain security on the crash scene until the FAA arrives and conducts the crash investigation.

Investigating officer is Trooper Jeff Finchum.

Assisting agencies included Martinsville City Police, Morgan County Sheriff's Department, Martinsville Fire Department, Washington Township Fire Department and Rural Metro Ambulance.

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