Tragedy Strikes: Helicopter Crash in Dagestan Claims Four Lives

Four individuals lost their lives and three others were injured following the crash of a private helicopter in the Republic of Dagestan in Russia’s North Caucasus, according to officials on Friday.

The helicopter was en route between two towns in Dagestan when it went down near the Caspian Sea coastline, as reported by the Ministry of Emergency Situations.

The aircraft collided with an unoccupied private residence, which was subsequently destroyed by the fire that ensued, as reported by emergency service sources to the state-operated news agency TASS.

Firefighting teams have since managed to extinguish the blaze.

According to TASS sources, the aircraft involved was a Ka-226 transport helicopter operated by the Kizlyar Electromechanical Plant, and it was confirmed that it was not carrying any tourists, contrary to earlier claims.

Russian authorities have initiated a criminal investigation into the incident, focusing on suspected violations of aviation safety regulations.

Investigators are exploring technical malfunctions as a potential cause, while also considering other possible explanations.