GLASGOW, Scotland (Reuters) – Eight people were killed and 14 others seriously injured when a police helicopter crashed into the roof of a packed Glasgow pub, trapping many inside in choking dust and debris, Scottish police said yesterday,
Witnesses said the helicopter dropped from the sky like a stone onto the busy Clutha Pub in Scotland’s biggest city on Friday night while more than 100 people were crammed inside, listening to a live music concert.
The helicopter crew – two police officers and the civilian pilot – were among the dead and the others were discovered inside the wreckage of the building, Chief Constable of Police Scotland Stephen House told reporters. He said 14 others remained in hospital with serious injuries.
The 12-metre (40 foot) helicopter – a twin-engine Eurocopter EC135 T2, made by a subsidiary of EADS – spiralled into the pub in the centre of Glasgow, destroying part of the roof.
The mangled wreckage remained embedded in the middle of the building as the search continued throughout yesterday.
“We are still in … a rescue and recovery situation,” House said. “Until the helicopter is out of the way we won’t know what … is going on underneath.”
Immediately after the crash, revellers caked in dust and blood rushed out into the street. Passers-by including the local member of parliament formed a human chain to bring out the injured from the building.
