2 killed when helicopter crashes onto barge in the Mississippi River

ALTON, Ill. (KMOV/Gray News) - Two people were killed when a helicopter crashed into a barge in the Mississippi River near Alton, Illinois.

First responders confirmed that the helicopter crashed onto a barge and caught fire at about 11 a.m. Thursday.

The Alton Fire Department confirmed two people were killed in the crash.

The power company Amaren confirmed that an Ameren contractor and subcontractor were repairing and replacing tower lighting when the helicopter crashed.

“We are saddened about today’s tragic incident,” an Ameren spokesperson said. “Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences are with the victims’ families and colleagues. We will cooperate with the investigation.”

The Missouri State Highway Patrol said the helicopter hit power lines, which then fell into the water. A fire broke out on the barge but was quickly put out.

A witness, identified as Adam Briggs, shared video with KMOV of the crash’s aftermath.

“The helicopter blew up, and fell, crashed into that barge, and it’s exploding right now,” he is heard saying in the video. “It’s exploding right now ... I just called 911.”

The Illinois State Police Department said that as a result of the crash, traffic on the Lewis and Clark Bridge going into Illinois will be closed for an undetermined amount of time.

The Federal Aviation Administration and National Transportation Safety Board will investigate the crash, according to the FAA.

The FAA arrived on scene Thursday afternoon. NTSB says their investigators will arrive to begin investigating on Friday