A tragic helicopter crash in Arizona claimed the lives of four family members just hours before the pilot’s scheduled wedding ceremony. The incident involved pilot David McCarty, aged 59, along with his three nieces – Rachel McCarty, 22, Faith McCarty, 21, and Katelyn Heideman, also 21. The helicopter collided with a slackline in a remote area east of Phoenix on January 2, resulting in the fatal crash. Responders took several hours to reach the crash site due to the rugged terrain, confirming the deaths of all onboard later that evening.
The helicopter had departed from an airport in Queen Creek, owned by McCarty, who was a respected aviation professional and the founder of Columbia Basin Helicopters. The FAA imposed flight restrictions over the area during recovery efforts. The tragic loss deeply impacted the family and friends of the victims, with heartfelt messages expressing grief and gratitude for the outpouring of support circulating online.
Mary Jane Heideman, the mother of Katelyn and aunt to Rachel and Faith, expressed the profound loss, highlighting the bright futures the girls had ahead. As the family copes with the tragedy, they requested continued thoughts and prayers for all affected by the heartbreaking event.