'Horrifying to watch:' Fox River helicopter crash kills 1 in Oshkosh

Helicopter crashes into Fox River in Oshkosh

OSHKOSH -- One person is dead after a helicopter hit power lines and crashed into the Fox River in Oshkosh Saturday afternoon, June 9. It took hours to recover the body because crews couldn't immediately get in the water.

"It was horrifying to watch," said Brody Snood, witness.

It's not the kind of afternoon Brody Snood ever expected; as he stood watching boats pass on the water, his focus quickly turned to the sky.

Helicopter crashes into Fox River in Oshkosh

Helicopter crashes into Fox River in Oshkosh

"I just heard a really big boom and a splash and after that it was gone," said Snood.

The helicopter crashed into the river around 12:30 p.m.

"I was blank-minded. I was like 'Oh my God, someone just died,'" said Snood.

The active power line snapped from the tall pole and into the water as well.

Helicopter crashes into Fox River in Oshkosh

Helicopter crashes into Fox River in Oshkosh

Helicopter crashes into Fox River in Oshkosh

"It was like a movie scene," Snood said.

Investigators say they were initially hindered by the live wires. Utility crews worked to turn off power so search teams could head into the water.

Helicopter crashes into Fox River in Oshkosh

Helicopter crashes into Fox River in Oshkosh

People stood watching along the riverbank as divers scoped out the area. Hours later, they pulled the wreckage from the water and one body.

"We know that there was one person for sure. So we recovered one person," said Lara Vendola-Messer, Winnebago County Sheriff's Office.

A sad ending to a day witnesses will never forget.

"I don't even know how to explain it because I'm just at a loss for words," said Snood.

The investigation is ongoing. It is now in the hands of the NTSB and FAA.

Helicopter crashes into Fox River in Oshkosh