03/10/2026
A fatal helicopter crash occurred on Monday, March 9, 2026, around 3:17 p.m. PST near 8413 OAK CREEK RD in Mojave, California, resulting in at least one fatality. The aircraft, reportedly an MD Helicopters 369FF (MD530F), was conducting power line work in the Tehachapi Pass wind farm area when it went down and caught fire.
Incident Details
Location: Remote area near Oak Creek Road and 90th Street West, Mojave, CA.
Fatalities: At least one person was confirmed dead.
Activity: The helicopter was engaged in external load operations, specifically laying powerlines.
Witness/Reported Cause: Reports indicated high winds caused the helicopter to lose control.
Investigation: The NTSB is investigating, with investigators expected on-site.
Emergency Response: Kern County fire crews responded to the burning wreckage, and Oak Creek Road was closed for the investigation.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of those involved.
This is a developing story based on early reports. If you have any further questions or need updates, feel free to ask.
