:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(745x427:747x429)/cairns-stolen-helicopter-crash-081224-2-6237b07242e34fe385f8d01280d12e33.jpg "1 dead after ‘unauthorized’ helicopter flight crashes onto hotel roof")
One person died when a helicopter crashed onto the roof of a hotel in Cairns, Australia on Monday, August 12.
In a statement, Queensland Police confirmed that the pilot, the plane’s sole occupant, was pronounced dead at the scene after the helicopter collided with the roof of a hotel.
“Police are investigating a fatal aviation accident in Cairns City this morning, August 12,” the police statement said. “At approximately 1.50am, emergency services were called to the intersection of The Esplanade and Florence Street following reports that a twin-engine helicopter had collided with the roof of a hotel.”
Although the collision caused a “fire on the roof of the hotel,” no guests on site or members of the public on the ground were injured after an evacuation was carried out, the police statement added.
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“The pilot and sole occupant of the aircraft were found at the scene and pronounced dead. Forensic examinations are currently underway to formally identify them,” Queensland Police continued.
“A restricted area remains in place, including Esplanade, Minnie Street, Abbott Street and Florence Street,” they added.
Shane Holmes, Deputy Chief Superintendent of the Queensland Police Service, told reporters: pro 10 News First Queenslandthat two hotel guests were treated for “minor injuries” sustained as a result of the force of the collision.
Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)/AFP via Getty
He added that the plane had been stolen from a general aviation hangar and that it was “an unauthorized flight.”
The outlet also added that the accident occurred at a Double Tree Hotel by Hilton.
PEOPLE has contacted the Queensland Police Service for further comment.
Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC)/AFP via Getty
“Police have imposed a Public Safety Preservation Act (PSPA) in Cairns City due to an aviation incident this morning, August 12,” said a second Queensland Police Service press release early Monday morning.
“The PSPA has an updated exclusion zone that includes Esplanade, Minnie Street, Abbott Street and Florence Street.”
The investigations into the incidents are ongoing.
