Brazilian firefighters said at least six people were killed on Sunday after two helicopters collided mid-air and crashed in western Rio de Janeiro.
According to a firefighters’ statement, the aircraft came down in the parking lot of an electric vehicle dealership in the suburb of Recreio dos Bandeirantes, sparking a fire that engulfed at least 20 vehicles.
“Reports indicate that the helicopters collided in mid-air and crashed into the parking lot of an electric car dealership, igniting a fire that engulfed at least 20 vehicles,” the firefighter statement said.
“At least six fatalities have been confirmed. All were crew members of the aircraft involved in the accident,” the statement added.
Images carried by local media showed a thick plume of black smoke rising above the dealership as several vehicles burned.
Authorities did not immediately provide details on the cause of the collision, and an investigation is expected.
Small aircraft accidents are common in Brazil, the world’s fifth-largest country by area.
Last month, a small plane crashed into the side of a building in the southeastern city of Belo Horizonte, killing both the pilot and co-pilot.