Rescuers Say Helicopter Down in Missouri’s Meramec River

A helicopter has gone down in the Meramec River in Missouri according to rescuers on the scene. The Sullivan Fire Protection District has shared a photo with preliminary reports of what's happening.

Here's what the Sullivan Fire Protection District said just a few minutes ago on social media.

In case you can't see their status update, the Sullivan Fire Protection District said "Sullivan fire units are currently on the scene of a confirmed helicopter crash in the Meramec River. 4 people out of the water and deploying rescue swimmers now." KTVI is reporting via Yahoo News that the helicopter is believed to have hit power lines before it crashed into the Meramec. There are no details about the injuries to the 4 people believed to be onboard. They also add that the Missouri State Highway Patrol has dispatched a helicopter of their own to assist with rescue efforts.

UPDATE: The Missouri Department of Natural Resources says that the helicopter was carrying three Missouri state parks team members and a private pilot when it hit a power line. All were rescued and are being cared for in the Missouri Baptist Sullivan Hospital.

“While we continue to investigate, we want to thank the first responders for their quick actions, and we are very thankful that everyone appears to be ok,” said Kurt Schaefer, director of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.