NSIB Receives Preliminary Report on Wigwe Helicopter Crash, reveals Extensive Damage, Fragmentation 

The Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau, NSIB has received a preliminary report following the tragic helicopter accident near Halloran Springs, California, on February 9, 2024, which claimed the lives of six individuals including four Nigerians.

They are Nigerian businessman Dr. Herbert Wigwe, his wife Doreen Wigwe, son Chizi Wigwe, and former Chairman of the Nigerian Exchange Group, Mr. Abimbola Ogunbanjo.

According to a statement from the Director, Public Affairs and Consumer Protection NSIB, Mrs Bimbo Oladeji, the preliminary report received from the lead investigating agency, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) the helicopter, an Airbus Helicopter EC130B4 (registered N130CZ) operated by Orbic Air under Part 135 regulations, suffered significant damage upon impact, resulting in fragmentation.

The aircraft was travelling from Bob Hope Airport in California to Boulder City Municipal Airport in Nevada with a stopover at Palm Springs.

Witnesses reported encountering adverse weather conditions, including rain and snow, during the flight.

Several individuals observed a “fireball” in the area and contacted emergency services.

The wreckage was found scattered across a mountainous desert terrain near Halloran Springs, indicating a high-impact crash.

Analysis of the debris pattern suggests a trajectory leading to a crater containing fragments of the landing gear, cockpit components, and cabin structures.

All major helicopter components were recovered at the site, with the fuselage, cockpit, and cabin significantly damaged.

Evidence of thermal damage was found on debris and vegetation, indicating the force of the impact.

The flight controls and linkages were fragmented, preventing verification of their functionality.

The main rotor blades were fragmented and “broomstrawed,” with the blade sleeves and tips present.

Data from various sources, including flight tracking systems, operator reports, and eyewitness accounts, are being used to reconstruct the flight path and sequence of events.

The NSIB says, it will continue to collaborate with the NTSB and other authorities to access the full investigation docket, comprising photographs, interviews, and other data, gather additional evidence to understand the cause of the accident fully.

The preliminary report emphasizes that the information is preliminary and subject to further investigation. It should not be considered the final determination of the accident’s cause. 

The NSIB Director General Captain Alex Badeh says, “We express our gratitude to the NTSB for their cooperation and sharing vital information. We will continue to work closely with all relevant authorities to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the circumstances that led to this tragic event.”