A mid-air collision between two helicopters in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, has left six people dead.

The accident occurred on Sunday (June 14) morning in the Recreio dos Bandeirantes neighborhood in the western zone of the city, local authorities reported. An investigation has already been launched to determine the cause of the crash.

According to the fire department, the two helicopters collided in mid-air, lost control, and crashed into the parking lot of an electric vehicle (EV) showroom. The impact triggered a massive fire that engulfed approximately 20 vehicles parked in the lot.

Fire department spokesperson Fábio Contreras noted that extinguishing the blaze was exceptionally difficult due to the toxic gases emitted by the electric vehicles' lithium-ion batteries.

"When these types of batteries catch fire, they release highly toxic gases and significantly increase the temperature and intensity of the flames," Contreras explained. "Putting out an electric vehicle fire requires three to four times more water than a conventional car fire."

Contreras further stated that the crash site is located in a densely populated area. Had the helicopters crashed elsewhere instead of the parking lot, the casualties could have been much higher.

Rescuers found one helicopter burning among the electric cars; all five occupants on board were killed. The second helicopter was located about 100 meters away with only the pilot inside, who also lost his life.

Following the collision, debris from the aircraft was scattered across an area of several hundred meters. Videos circulating on social media showed thick plumes of black smoke billowing into the sky from the parking lot.

Authorities stated that video footage and other evidence will be reviewed to determine the exact cause of the accident.

Helicopter accidents are not uncommon in Brazil. According to the country’s Aeronautical Accident Prevention and Investigation Center (CENIPA), 84 aviation accidents had already been recorded nationwide this year prior to this incident.
Source: Al Jazeera