Probable cause
The unauthorized operation of the helicopter by a non-certificated and unqualified individual who failed to maintain helicopter control.
NTSB analysis
The individual flying the helicopter neither held a pilot certificate nor had any documented experience flying helicopters. He was employed by the operator as a company mechanic. He took the helicopter without permission and was giving 4 acquaintances a ride in the area. While maneuvering at low altitude near one of the passenger’s homes, the helicopter entered an uncontrolled descent and collided with the ground.
Text from the NTSB. Open the NTSB docket for WPR12LA065 for the full record.
Event
- Date
- Dec 13, 2011
- Type
- Accident
- Place
- Rock Springs, Wyoming
- Highest injury
- Minor
- Minor injuries
- 5
- Weather
- Visual (VMC)
- Light
- Day
Bell 407
- N-number
- N8067Z
- Category
- Helicopter
- Damage
- Substantial
- Operating rule
- Part 91 (general aviation)
- Purpose of flight
- Personal
From the NTSB aviation accident database: N-registered aircraft, events since 2008, data through Oct 28, 2026. The file is published monthly, so the latest weeks are incomplete and recent records can change. The official source is the NTSB aviation investigation search. CheckAero is independent and not affiliated with the NTSB.