A Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) trooper and a Marion County sheriff’s deputy were killed in a tragic helicopter crash in eastern Tennessee, officials said. The helicopter crashed in a wooded area on Mount Aetna in Marion County after accidentally hitting a power line Tuesday afternoon, officials said. The names of the victims have not been released by their respective agencies, but the Scott County Sheriff’s Office identified the fallen trooper as Sergeant Lee Russell. Law enforcement was searching for the helicopter Tuesday afternoon. (WZTV) “Our deepest condolences to the family of Tennessee Highway Patrol Sergeant Lee Russell, along with his passenger, a Marion County Sheriff’s Deputy,” the Facebook post read. “God bless these dedicated law enforcement officers and their families during this unimaginable time.” WEST VIRGINIA HELICOPTER CRASH KILLS ALL 6 OCCUPANTS Some power lines were reportedly down on Interstate 24, which was backed up Tuesday night after the crash. I-24 East was temporarily closed while I-24 was reduced to one lane. The crashed Bell 206 helicopter, which belonged to THP, was located around 7pm on Tuesday. DEPUTY AT LEAST TENNIS BEAR TRAPPED IN CAR The Federal Aviation Administration is investigating the helicopter crash that killed two Tennessee police officers. (WZTV) “Today is a very tragic day for law enforcement, we appreciate all of your support,” said THP Captain Travis Plotzer. Tennessee Department of Transportation officials initially responded to the crash, while emergency crews also repaired downed power lines. The helicopter struck a power line and crashed, according to Tennessee officials. (WZTV) CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is investigating the incident with the assistance of the Federal Aviation Association (FAA).
