Helicopter Crash In Harford County Under Investigation: Police

HARFORD COUNTY, MD — Police said the cause of a helicopter crash in Pylesville remains under investigation. The helicopter pilot sustained a minor injury, according to authorities.

Officials said the Hughes model 369D helicopter crashed in the 4400 block of Graceton Road around 1 p.m. Saturday, without hitting any structures or vehicles.

The pilot — Andrew Rannigan, 34, of Chesapeake, Virginia — suffered a minor injury but did not need medical treatment, according to Maryland State Police. He was working for Haverfield Aviation of Pennsylvania, which was contracted to do power line work for a utility company.

Nobody on the ground was hurt, and Rannigan reported his injury was minor.

Authorities said it was not clear why the helicopter crashed while performing the work.

Troopers found the aircraft in a field, where crews from the Whiteford Volunteer Fire Company and deputies from the Harford County Sheriff's Office also responded.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board were contacted, and officials said the FAA was continuing the investigation.