A tragic helicopter crash in the United States claimed the life of a 26-year-old Indian-origin pilot just hours after his wedding, leaving his newlywed wife injured and devastated.
Dave Fiji, a first officer with Delta Air Lines whose family traces its roots to Kerala, was travelling with his bride Jessni to begin their honeymoon celebrations when the helicopter crashed near Dawsonville, Georgia.
The pilot flying the helicopter also died in the accident.
Celebration turns into tragedy
According to reports, Dave and Jessni were married on Friday in a ceremony attended by around 400 guests at The Revere in Dawsonville.
Following the reception, the couple boarded a Robinson R66 helicopter for a special journey to DeKalb-Peachtree Airport before spending the night in Atlanta.
However, the aircraft crashed in a wooded area near Mount Vernon Drive, a short distance from the wedding venue.
Bride survives six hours in wreckage
Jessni, a nurse by profession, survived the crash and is currently recovering in hospital.
According to Dave’s father, George Fiji, rescuers took several hours to locate the crash site. During that time, Jessni remained trapped inside the wreckage.
He said she regained consciousness to find her husband beside her and realised he had not survived the crash.
The incident has left family members, friends and the local community in deep shock.
Concerns raised about weather conditions
George Fiji revealed that his son had reportedly expressed concerns about poor visibility before the flight took off.
According to him, Dave, being an experienced pilot, questioned whether it was safe to fly in the prevailing weather conditions. However, the helicopter pilot reportedly assured the couple that the flight could proceed safely.
Investigation underway
Authorities have launched an investigation into the crash.
The National Transportation Safety Board is examining the circumstances surrounding the accident and has not yet determined the cause.
As the investigation continues, tributes have poured in for Dave Fiji, whose life was cut short just hours after beginning a new chapter with his wife.