CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Two people were killed in a helicopter crash in south Charlotte shortly after noon on Tuesday, officials confirmed.
The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed a Robinson R44 crashed into a wooded area alongside Interstate 77 between Tyvola Road and Nations Ford Road around noon on Nov. 22. WCNC Charlotte confirmed the helicopter belongs to WBTV, a local television news station.
Two people were pronounced dead at the scene. The victims were identified as pilot Chip Tayag and meteorologist Jason Myers.
A witness told WCNC Charlotte that it appeared the pilot took evasive action in the moments leading up to the crash. The man said the pilot's heroic actions may have saved countless lives as he fought the helicopter to avoid crashing into the highway.
Timeline of events: Deadly helicopter crash in Charlotte
11:50 a.m.: The Robinson R44 helicopter takes off
11:56 a.m.: The FAA loses contact with the chopper as it flies over south Charlotte
11:58 a.m.: Multiple crews respond to calls of a reported helicopter crash near I-77 and Tyvola Road. Charlotte Fire, Charlotte-Mecklenburg police and Medic crews are dispatched to the scene
1:18 p.m.: Authorities close all lanes of southbound I-77 to assess the crash
1:44 p.m.: WCNC Charlotte confirms the helicopter belongs to WBTV
1:48 p.m.: The NTSB confirms it is investigating the crash involving WBTV's helicopter
1:56 p.m.: CMPD Chief Johnny Jennings calls the pilot a hero based on witness testimony that their evasive maneuvers prevented more deaths and injuries
3:10 p.m.: WBTV identifies the victims as meteorologist Jason Myers and pilot Chip Tayag.
4:26 p.m.: Two lanes reopen on southbound I-77
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) will investigate the cause of the crash.
While specifics have not yet been released, the NTSB has a standard process it typically follows in the aftermath of an aviation crash.
Supporting Jason Myers' family
A family friend has launched a GoFundMe for the Myers, with all funds toward funeral and memorial expenses. It has far surpassed its original $15,000 goal as donors have contributed more than $70,000 as of writing.
If you feel called to give, you can do so at this link.
Supporting Chip Tayag's family
A family friend has launched a GoFundMe to help Tayag's family with funeral expenses. As of writing, almost $5,000 of a $15,000 goal has been raised.
WBTV has shared plans for Chip Tayag's memorial services. Visitation will be on Tuesday, Nov. 29 at Palmetto Funeral Home in Fort Mill, South Carolina from 6-8 p.m. His Mass of Christian burial will be held at noon on Wednesday, Nov. 30 at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church in Lancaster, South Carolina. His family asks that donations to HOPE in Lancaster County be made in lieu of flowers.
If you feel called to give, you can do so at this link.