Portugal has declared a national day of mourning following a tragic helicopter crash in the Douro River that resulted in the deaths of four crew members, with one still missing. The helicopter was returning from a firefighting mission when it crashed, leaving the nation in shock and grief.
The helicopter was carrying six people, including the pilot and five specialists from the Emergency Protection and Rescue Unit (UEPS) of the GNR. The pilot, a 44-year-old civilian, was rescued alive by a nearby tourism boat and taken to a hospital with minor injuries.
Rescue teams, including maritime police, divers, and two Air Force helicopters, were been deployed to search the river and its banks. The helicopter had split into two upon impact, with two bodies found inside the aircraft and two near its tail. The search for the fifth passenger was suspended at nightfall and resumed the following day.
The tragic helicopter crash has left Portugal in mourning, with the nation coming together to support the families of the victims. As investigations continue, the focus remains on uncovering the cause of the accident and preventing future tragedies.