Kobe Helicopter Crash Fatalities
On January 26, 2020, a Sikorsky S-76B helicopter crashed into a hillside near Kobe, Japan. All nine people on board were killed. The crash occurred in foggy conditions and was confirmed by Japanese authorities after a search of the site.
Victim Identities
The crash killed Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna, and seven others. The victims included John Altobelli, Keri Altobelli, Alyssa Altobelli, Christina Mauser, and Sarah Chester, along with their daughters. Pilot Ara Zobayan also died in the accident.
Crash Cause and Investigation
U.S. and Japanese investigators concluded the accident was likely caused by spatial disorientation in thick fog. The pilot, Ara Zobayan, was flying under instrument flight rules. The NTSB final report cited the pilot's decision to continue into deteriorating weather as a key factor.
For the full NTSB accident report, see NTSB Accident Report.