N1169W

On August 23, 1996, during the early morning hours, a turbine powered Bell 47 Soloy helicopter, N1169W, registered to a private owner and operated by Exploration Helicopter of Montrose, Colorado, was destroyed while being operated by an authorized person near Intracoastal City, Louisiana. The unauthorized helicopter flight was by an unknown person(s) resulted in a loss of control. No evidence of injuries to the occupant(s) was found. Local authorities reported that flight was originating at the time of the accident.

According to local law enforcement personnel, an "unknown individual started the helicopter, lifted off the ground, and immediately lost control." Examination of the wreckage revealed that the tail boom was severed and the main rotor system became separated from the helicopter.

There were no eyewitnesses to the accident and no local residents of the area recalled hearing the helicopter or the sound of impact anytime during the night. The operator stated that the helicopter was last operated on the previous afternoon and the aircraft was secured at 1800. The operator reported the helicopter missing at 0530. No suspects were arrested or charged.