Helicopter Lifting Christmas Trees Crashes

(LYONS) - The Marion County Sheriff’s Office responded to a report of a helicopter crash outside of Lyons on Wednesday.

The pilot, 41-year old Daniel Arenson, from North Bend, Oregon was hoisting trees for Sublimity Tree Farms at 10214 Wagner Rd SE, Lyons. The helicopter he was operating was a 1989 McDonald Douglas Model MD 369E.

Officials say that Arenson was hoisting a bundle of Christmas trees when the rope broke that was secured to the sling. The rope then rebounded into the rotor blades of the helicopter, causing the motor to stall.

The helicopter fell approximately 100 feet to the ground. Arenson was not injured and refused any medical treatment. He was the only occupant in the aircraft. No one else was injured.

The FAA was notified and will be conducting any further investigation into the crash.

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Jim December 4, 2006 7:22 am (Pacific time)

Having slung Christmas trees myself many years I know the bundle ropes can and do break as I myself had it happen several times. One time the sling and remainder of the ropes snapped up and hit the bottom of the helicopter, it happens! This pilot did nothing wrong except not insisting that new ropes be used on the slings.

Anonymous November 30, 2006 2:55 pm (Pacific time)

wow! apparently he is as lucky in crashes as he is in bailing out of former responsibility for bills he built up with his former business. we had a bad christmas the year we had to write off all of that money so as far as I am concerned this is his payback merry christams!

Dan November 28, 2006 11:25 pm (Pacific time)

If this pilot had much experience, he would have used a lower line long enough to prevent such a stupid mistake. these lifting ropes can break anytime due to wear from use. he is lucky to walk away alive!!! bet he will not do that again!!!!

Mikey November 28, 2006 4:45 am (Pacific time)

Using a rope? No wonder it broke.

Jeff November 27, 2006 1:14 pm (Pacific time)

Ouch!

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