Local News

Pilot dies in helicopter crash

Posted: 12/01/12 at 10:05 pm EST      Last Updated: 12/03/12 at 11:58 am EST

TAMPA, Fla. (WSVN) -- A helicopter spiraled out of control off the coast of Tampa.

The helicopter crashed into the water 300 yards from the shore.

People in the area watched in shock as the chopper lost its main blade on its descent. "It flipped over," said a witness, "rolled over sideways, and a huge plunge with crazy mashing metal noise."

Officials recovered the pilot's body Saturday.

Salvage crews continue to work on the scene to recover parts of the aircraft.

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