Stuns Utah Helicopter Crash Survivor

• A Bell 206L crashed at 3:10 p.m. local time, dropping almost 500 feet.
• Four people on board survived; Oaklee Toone sustained a head injury.
• The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is conducting the investigation.
• The family has launched a GoFundMe to cover medical expenses.

The aircraft was a Bell 206L, a commonly used model for short-haul flights. The FAA confirmed the crash to News Of Los Angeles and identified the model in its preliminary report.

Local officials received a report of the crash and located the helicopter 100 yards from the highway. The Wasatch County Sheriff’s Office issued a statement confirming the location and the immediate response.

One individual sustained a critical injury and was transported by AirMed to a hospital for a head injury. The remaining occupants were evaluated on the scene and later released.

The NTSB is leading an ongoing investigation. A spokesperson said the on-scene phase is complete and a preliminary report is expected by next month, with a final report due within one to two years.

The crash abruptly ended a fun outing for the Toones and their close friends-the pilot and his wife. Kory had started recording the flight on his cell phone, capturing both him and Oaklee smiling before the loss of control.

During the descent, the helicopter began to spin out of control. Kory dropped his phone, but the recording continued. Baylee Demars later listened to the audio captured before the crash near Wolf Creek Campground.

In the recording, Oaklee can be heard calling out to her dad, “I’m alive. I’m alive. Dad, are you alive?” Kory’s response was described by Baylee as “music to my ears.”

Baylee described the experience as “my worst nightmare” and highlighted her dad’s calm demeanor, saying, “He’s a rock.” She emphasized how hearing her dad coach her through the ordeal kept her calm.

Nearby snowmobilers, one a nurse, witnessed the descent and assisted the passengers until first responders arrived. Their quick actions were credited with helping keep everyone safe.

Kory is healing from serious chest injuries, and Oaklee remains in a critical but stable condition. All four are now out of the hospital, which Baylee called a “miracle.”

Baylee launched a GoFundMe to cover Oaklee’s AirMed and medical bills. She noted that the head injury will prevent Oaklee from earning income for some time.

Despite the trauma, the family expressed gratitude for the time they have together. Baylee said they are thankful to have more time together and to have survived.

Baylee added, “The thing you experience when you think you’re about to die is you’re not thinking about your possessions. You’re thinking about people, your family, your friends, your loved ones.” She also noted her dad expressed that was what was running through his mind.

First responders, snowmobilers, and the pilot’s quick actions ensured all passengers survived the crash. The NTSB’s investigation will determine the precise cause.

Oaklee’s recovery will be long and costly, but the family remains hopeful. The GoFundMe continues to gather support, and the NTSB’s final report will offer closure.