A military helicopter crash near the village of Naryshkino in Russia’s Oryol region has resulted in the deaths of two crew members. The downed aircraft was reported to be a Mi-8 helicopter belonging to the Russian Air Force.
According to local sources ASTRA and Mash, the accident occurred in the Uritsky district of Oryol during the morning hours. Following the crash, a major fire broke out in the area, accompanied by a series of explosions. These explosions were reportedly caused by the detonation of ammunition onboard the helicopter.
Initial investigations at the scene confirmed that the pilot and flight engineer on board lost their lives. Authorities stated that there were no civilian casualties in the incident.
Eyewitness accounts and preliminary assessments suggest that the Mi-8 helicopter was returning to Vyazemsky Air Base in the Smolensk region when it crashed due to a technical malfunction. Engine failure is being cited as the likely cause of the accident.
Following the crash, strict security measures were implemented in the area. Due to the risk of further explosions from remaining ammunition, access to the site is being controlled. The Russian Ministry of Defence has not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident.
As expert teams continue their investigation at the crash site, a formal inquiry into the incident has been launched.
