“Four people have died following a crash involving two helicopters on the Gold Coast today (January 2). Initial investigations indicate the crash occurred around 2 pm when one helicopter was landing and another was taking off near Seaworld Drive in Main Beach,” Queensland Police said in a statement.

One of the helicopters managed to successfully land but the other chopper crashed into the sand bank, killing four occupants and leaving the remaining passengers in critical condition, according to the statement.

“A further three people, also traveling in the crashed helicopter, suffered critical injuries and were taken to hospital. Six people were traveling in the helicopter that landed safely. Five patients in this helicopter suffered minor injuries and were taken to Gold Coast University Hospital. One person was physically uninjured,” the police noted.

Forensic Crash Unit investigations are continuing with assistance from the Australian Transport Safety Bureau. (ILKHA)