20001116023569A

(-23) On November 16, 2000, approx. 2155 CST, a Eurocopter AS350B2, N126TV, was destroyed following impact with wires, a phone pole and terrain while maneuvering in the river oaks area of Houston, TX. The fox news helicopter was owned and operated by helicopter services, inc. based at kdwh airport. The commercial instrument helicopter rated pilot, the sole occupant, sustained fatal injuries. Night IMC condition prevailed at the accident site. Wx estimated to be 300 ft overcast in rain and mist. N126TV impacted the ground in an easterly direction on earl street, adjacent to the south side of 2705 bammel. The pilot was found laying on his stomach on earl street, 5 to 7 feet infront of N126TV. (.4) the turbine powered helicopter was on a 29 nautical mile night flight over a city. Two law enforcement officers, located about two blocks northeast of the accident site, reported observing the helicopter "flying at a very low altitude" northbound. The officers walked around the building to a parking lot where they met another officer. All three officers heard the helicopter fly over the parking lot in a southwest direction. The officers look ed for the helicopter, but they could not see it due to the poor visibility. When the helicopter came into view, it was "banked to the right" traveling in a westerly direction. The helicopter continued in a downward direction, and then a "huge fireball" was observed. The helicopter struck wires, a power pole and an above ground gas meter. An electrical transformer exploded, and the helicopter was consumed by the ensuing fire. The destination airport had IFR weather conditions at the time of departure. Witnesses estimated that at the time of the accident, there was an overcast ceiling of about 300-400 feet. No record was found of any preflight weather briefing obtained by the pilot. No pre-impact anomalies were observed during an examination of the airframe and engine.