11-Year-Old Boy Injured in Huntington Beach Helicopter Crash

URGENT UPDATE: An 11-year-old boy, identified as Oliver Holland, sustained critical injuries, including a collapsed lung and a brain bleed, after being struck by a helicopter that spiraled out of control and crashed in Huntington Beach, California, earlier this month. The incident occurred on October 11, 2023, as Oliver enjoyed a day at the beach with his family.

According to a statement from his sister, Madeline Holland, Oliver is currently hospitalized and undergoing surgery. She shared the emotional impact of the event on their family, stating, “We are praying for a safe recovery and we can’t really say anything else.” The family has launched a GoFundMe campaign to support Oliver’s recovery, which has raised nearly $110,000 from over 2,500 donations in just a few days.

Witnesses described the helicopter as it lost control while coasting above the beach, spinning wildly before crashing into a row of palm trees near the Pacific Coast Highway. Multiple videos captured the heart-stopping moment, showing the aircraft twirling in midair before plummeting to the ground, shocking beachgoers who watched the tragedy unfold.

Oliver’s sister painted a vivid picture of her brother, calling him “the smartest, funniest boy I have ever known.” She expressed a desire to raise awareness about the incident, emphasizing that “anything can help” in their time of need.

The Huntington Beach Fire Department reported that a total of five people were hospitalized due to the crash. This includes two individuals who were in the helicopter and were rescued from the wreckage, as well as three others injured on the street, including Oliver.

As investigations into the cause of the crash continue, officials confirmed that the helicopter was associated with an annual fundraising event known as “Cars ‘N Copters.”

The community is rallying around the Holland family during this difficult time, hoping for Oliver’s swift recovery. As updates on his condition emerge, many are urged to stay tuned for further developments surrounding this tragic incident.

This shocking event underscores the unpredictable nature of aviation accidents, leaving many beachgoers and the local community in disbelief. As the investigation unfolds, authorities are expected to release more information regarding the helicopter’s malfunction and the safety protocols involved in such events.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.