This Friday morning (3), a helicopter crashed into the sea at Praia da Barra da Tijucain the West Zone of Rio de Janeiro. The pilot of the aircraft was identified as Adônis Lopes de Oliveiraan experienced civil police officer with more than 40 years of career in the institution.
The accident occurred around 11:20 am, at 3.100 Avenida Lúcio Costa, between .
In addition to the pilot, two Canadian tourists were on board; all were rescued alive and classified as minor victims.
Profile of pilot Adônis Lopes
Adonis Lopes is a well-known figure in public security in Rio de Janeiro, having worked as a pilot and held leadership positions in the Aeropolice Service (SAER) of the Civil Police. Over four decades, he participated in several high-profile operations in the state.
Among the most notable episodes in his career is piloting the aircraft on the mission that resulted in the neutralization of the drug trafficker known as Mathematicalin 2012, at the Korea Complex.
Adonis is also remembered for an unusual landing on the sand of Copacabana Beach, carried out to arrest suspects of robbing bathers.
In addition to his police work, he has a background in sea and land rescues in support of other bodies.
Details about the aircraft crash
The incident mobilized military personnel from the and local lifeguards, who immediately helped the victims while they were still in the water.
According to preliminary information, the helicopter was flying at an altitude of approximately 150 metros before falling into the sea.
The victims were removed from the water and placed safely on the sand strip to receive medical assistance.
O CENIPA (Aeronautical Accident Investigation and Prevention Center) sent teams to the scene to begin the .
To date, the causes of the accident have not been confirmed by the competent authorities.
