A deadly helicopter crash at Camp Pendleton last July was likely caused by debris hitting the aircraft's rotor, causing it to stall. That's according to the U-T San Diego, which obtained documents on cause of the crash under the Freedom of Information Act.
The U-T reports that debris, possibly a stray bolt, caused a structural failure in the tail rotor:
Other contributing factors to the crash and its fatal outcome included the design of the Bell helicopter, which has low clearance around the drive shaft making it difficult to spot debris and lacks protective barriers, the investigator concluded.
The crash on July 6, 2011 killed Marine Sgt. Trevor Cook and injured five other Marines who were part of the crew.
Trevor’s father, David Cook, released a statement about his son to WIVB-TV following his death:
“Missed home a lot, as we did him. Was recently married in California. Leaves behind a 23-year-old widow. He was just a well-rounded respectful young man. Everybody who came in contact with him, loved him. He was a very proud American.”
WIVB-TV put together a report about the life of Sgt. Cook after the crash:
Sgt. Trevor Cook
