Police Chopper Down In Lake Mitchell

A Georgia police helicopter has crashed into Alabama’s Lake Mitchell in Chilton County, and there are no signs of survivors, authorities say. Recovery efforts are underway.

Authorities said the helicopter was out of the Columbus area and assigned to the Metro Area Narcotics Task Force.

An FFA spokesperson said the Bell OH-58 helicopter crashed at 1:15 central time. The number of people aboard the helicopter was not known.

Initial reports say the helicopter hit power lines and crashed in the Cargile Creek area of the lake.

Investigators from the FAA are in route.

The crash occurred near Chilton County Highway 553 in Verbena. Boaters were being asked to stay out of the area of the crash, and motorists were being asked to avoid Chilton County Highways 542 and 553.