JAKOB KINDT AND DUSTIN POPE IDENTIFIED AS UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI MEDICAL CENTER (UMMC) EMPLOYEES KILLED IN MONDAY AIRCARE HELICOPTER CRASH NEAR THE NATCHEZ TRACE PARKWAY: A TRAGEDY THAT HAS LEFT THE MEDICAL COMMUNITY IN MOURNING
Madison County, MS – Authorities have confirmed the identities of the two University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) employees who lost their lives in Monday’s tragic AirCare helicopter crash as Jakob Kindt and Dustin Pope. The pilot, employed by Med-Trans, has not yet been publicly named as officials work to notify the family.
Crash Details
The AirCare helicopter, which had just completed a patient transport, was on its way back to base when it crashed at approximately 12:36 p.m. The accident occurred in a heavily wooded area near the Natchez Trace Parkway, north of Highway 43. Emergency crews were dispatched shortly before 1 p.m., and Madison County officials later confirmed that all three crew members aboard were killed.
Investigation Underway
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation into the cause of the crash. Authorities are reviewing the helicopter’s maintenance records, pilot training, and weather conditions at the time of the accident.
Emotional Response from UMMC Officials
During a press conference Monday afternoon, UMMC Vice Chancellor Dr. LouAnn Woodward fought back tears as she addressed the devastating loss. “Our entire Medical Center family is heartbroken over this,” Woodward said. “We also want to express our concern and sadness for the AirCare team. This is the crew that responds to emergencies across the state. To see them today responding to one of their own… it’s something you can’t put into words.”
Support for the Families of the Victims
A fundraising campaign has been established to support the families of Jakob Kindt and Dustin Pope during this difficult time. Donations can be made online or in-person at a local bank. The community is also encouraged to share memories and condolences on social media using a designated hashtag.
Conclusion
The tragic loss of Jakob Kindt and Dustin Pope has left the University of Mississippi Medical Center community in mourning, and authorities are working tirelessly to determine the cause of the fatal helicopter crash. As the investigation continues, the UMMC family is coming together to support the families of the victims and to honor their memories.
How to Support the Families of the Victims
If you would like to support the families of Jakob Kindt and Dustin Pope during this difficult time, please consider making a donation to the fundraising campaign established in their honor. You can also offer condolences and share memories of Jakob and Dustin on social media using a designated hashtag.
