DAWSONVILLE, Ga. — What began as a wedding celebration ended in tragedy Friday night when a helicopter carrying a newlywed couple crashed in a wooded area of Dawson County, killing the groom and pilot.
Federal investigators continued their work Monday at the crash site near Dawsonville, where 37-year-old Dave Fiji was killed after departing his wedding reception at The Revere Wedding & Events Venue aboard a Robinson R66 helicopter. His bride, Jesni Fiji, survived the crash and was hospitalized with injuries.
The pilot, identified by the Dawson County Coroner’s Office as Nikhil Nargundkar, also died in the crash.
The helicopter went down shortly before 10:35 p.m. Friday, May 29, in a heavily wooded area off Highway 53 East near War Hill Park Road. The crash occurred only hours after the couple exchanged vows, turning what should have been one of the happiest days of their lives into a devastating loss for their families and loved ones.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is working to determine the cause of the crash.
In an update released Monday, June 1, the NTSB said investigators remain in the on-scene phase of the investigation, documenting wreckage, collecting evidence, and gathering information about the flight.
Initial findings indicate the helicopter struck tall trees before crashing into the ground. Investigators reported there was no post-impact fire.
“So far, all major helicopter components have been located in the debris path,” the NTSB said in a statement. “Additional documentation to the helicopter systems and engine still need to be conducted.”
Family members have told reporters that weather conditions were poor in the area before the helicopter departed. However, investigators stressed that no conclusions have been reached regarding the cause of the crash.
“It is important to note that NTSB does not determine cause during the on-scene phase of the investigative process or speculate about the cause of the accident,” the agency said. “This is considered the fact-gathering phase of the investigation.”
The NTSB is receiving assistance from the Federal Aviation Administration and the Dawson County Sheriff’s Office. Investigators are also working with Robinson Helicopter Company, Rolls-Royce Engines and Prestige Helicopters as part of the investigation.
Investigators are asking anyone who witnessed the crash or may have surveillance video or other information related to the flight to contact investigators at [email protected].
The NTSB expects to release a preliminary report within 30 days outlining factual information gathered during the initial investigation. A final report, including a determination of probable cause and any contributing factors, is expected to take between 12 and 24 months to complete.
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