The Prineville Police Department can confirm that one individual has died as a result of injuries sustained in the helicopter crash that occurred near the Prineville Airport on May 17, 2025.
The deceased is an 80-year-old male. Out of respect for the family, the individual’s name is not being released at this time.
A second victim, a 46-year-old male, survived the crash but sustained major injuries. His name is also being withheld out of respect for him and his family.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has assumed control of the investigation. The Prineville Police Department extends its condolences to the families affected by this tragic incident and thanks all agencies that assisted with the emergency response.
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Two men sustained injuries Saturday after the helicopter they were in crashed near the Prineville airport. According to Prineville Police:
At approximately 11:35 a.m. Saturday (5/17/25), Prineville dispatch received multiple 911 calls reporting a helicopter crash near the Prineville Airport. Police and fire personnel responded to the scene and located a downed helicopter south of SW Houston Lake Road in the area of the Crook County Landfill.
Emergency responders found two individuals at the crash site, an 80-year-old male pilot and a 46-year-old male passenger. Both sustained serious injuries and were treated at the scene before being airlifted to hospitals in Bend. Their current conditions are unknown.
The helicopter crashed into an open field approximately 200 yards off the roadway. No ground injuries or property damage were reported. It appears the helicopter was privately owned.
The scene has been secured, and there are no known ongoing hazards or threats to public safety. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have been notified and will take over the investigation.
