Helicopter Crashes into Barge on Mississippi River, Two Dead

East Alton, Il. (KFMO) - Tragedy struck late Thursday morning when a helicopter flying over the Mississippi River hit a powerline, then crashed into a barge, sparking a fire near East Alton, Il.

Authorities confirm both people on board the helicopter died in the crash. No one was believed to be on the barge at the time of the incident.

Corporal Dallas Thompson with the Missouri State Highway Patrol says emergency crews from both Missouri and Illinois rushed to the scene.

The fire was brought under control shortly after the crash. As of the latest report, the Mississippi River in the area remains closed to commercial traffic while investigators assess the scene and crews work to clear debris.

According to Ameren Illinois, the work was being conducted by an Ameren Illinois contractor and its subcontractor.