A wedding celebration ended in tragedy in the US state of Georgia when a helicopter carrying a newly married couple crashed shortly after their reception, killing the groom and the pilot while leaving the bride injured, authorities said.
The crash occurred late on May 29 in Dawson County, north of Atlanta, after the couple departed their wedding reception aboard a Robinson R66 helicopter en route to a hotel.
Officials identified the groom as 26-year-old Dave Fiji, a Delta Air Lines pilot whose family traces its roots to Kerala. The pilot operating the aircraft was also killed in the accident, although authorities have not yet publicly released the individual's identity.
According to emergency responders, the helicopter came down near Mount Vernon Drive in Dawsonville, a sparsely populated area of Dawson County. Both Dave and the pilot suffered fatal injuries and were pronounced dead at the scene.
Bride survives after calling for help
The bride, 25-year-old Jesni, survived the crash but sustained injuries. Reports indicate she lost consciousness following the impact and regained awareness several hours later. She then managed to contact emergency services, prompting a rescue operation that led to her being transported to hospital, where she remains under treatment.
Local authorities said deteriorating weather conditions may have played a significant role in the accident. Preliminary information also suggests the helicopter could have struck tree branches before crashing. However, investigators have not determined an official cause.
Personnel from the Dawson County Sheriff's Office, along with fire and emergency medical teams, responded to the scene and carried out rescue and recovery efforts.
The US National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has taken charge of the investigation and is examining the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Kerala roots
Dave was the son of Fiji George and Feba, members of Atlanta's Malayali community. Originally from Veettoor near Muvattupuzha in Kerala, the family has longstanding ties to both the local Indian community and the New Testament Church.
Family members said Dave's grandparents were among the early members of the family to settle in the United States. His grandfather had previously worked as a teacher at Ebenezer School in Veettoor. His parents later moved to the US after completing pharmacy studies in Bengaluru and subsequently built careers in the healthcare sector.
Dave is survived by his parents and his sister, Jewel.
Jesni, the daughter of Sam and Sheela from Thiruvalla in Kerala, remains in hospital recovering from injuries sustained in the crash.
Relatives said arrangements are being made to release Dave's body following legal formalities. Public viewing and funeral services are expected to be held in the Atlanta area later this week.