IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (AP) – A tragic helicopter accident occurred on a frozen reservoir in southeast Idaho on Thursday, claiming the life of one individual and leaving another injured, according to local authorities. The incident took place in the late afternoon at Ririe Reservoir, which is located east of Idaho Falls.

The Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office reported that multiple agencies responded swiftly to the crash site. First responders utilized snowmobiles to navigate the snow-covered terrain and reached the scene where the helicopter had downed. Inside, they discovered two occupants of the aircraft. Unfortunately, one individual was pronounced dead at the location, while the second person was swiftly transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. Authorities have indicated that the injured person's condition is stable, and they are expected to survive.

In the aftermath of the accident, deputies secured the area to ensure safety and begin preliminary investigations into the crash. The sheriff’s office has notified both the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) to assist in the investigation process. The presence of a downed power line was noted in the vicinity, which will also be considered as part of the ongoing examination into the cause of the helicopter crash.

The investigation is still in its early stages, and authorities are working diligently to gather more information regarding the events that led to this unfortunate incident. The community is grieving the loss and rallying to support those affected by the tragedy. As the investigation unfolds, more details will likely emerge, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding the crash.