Sherriff's deputy, Highway Patrol trooper killed in helicopter crash in Tennessee

In a tragic accident, a Marion County sheriff's deputy and a Tennessee Highway Patrol trooper lost their lives after their helicopter crash in eastern Tennessee. As per officials, the helicopter crash occurred in a wooded area in Marion County's Aetna Mountain after the chopper accidentally hit a power line on August 23. According to officials, the victims were found dead at the crash site.

Although the names of the victims have not been disclosed by their departments, the office of the Scott County Sheriff has identified the deceased trooper as Sergeant Lee Russell. The deceased Marion County Sherriff's deputy has been identified as Matt Blansett, and he is survived by his wife, Codie, and two sons - Banks and Maddox.

While informing about the accident and the trooper's death, the office posted condolences to the victims' families on Facebook.


Soon after the helicopter crash occurred, some power lines had fallen on Interstate 24. However, the power lines were backed up later on Tuesday evening. Besides, I-24 East was shut down temporarily, while only one lane of I-24 was left operational in the wake of the helicopter crash.



Officials of the Tennessee Department of Transportation responded to the accident immediately while the emergency staff also restored the power lines that were damaged due to the crash.

Multiple agencies conducted the search operation throughout the afternoon, and the crashed helicopter, Bell 206, was located at 7 pm, a few hours after the accident. The aircraft belonged to the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP).

Paying his condolences, Tennessee Highway Patrol Captain Travis Plotzer stated that the incident was "very tragic."

What caused the fatal crash is yet to be ascertained by the officials. Meanwhile, The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has investigated the tragic accident. The Federal Aviation Association is also assisting in the probe.