In the wake of the devastating helicopter crash that claimed the lives of Herbert Wigwe, his wife, son, and three others, new details have emerged shedding light on the tragic incident.

The crash occurred south of I-15 near Halloran Springs Road, approximately 75 miles northeast of Barstow, as confirmed by Michael Graham from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB). Graham revealed that the NTSB is actively investigating the crash, though details surrounding the crew remain limited.

Photo Credit: LindaIkeji

The aircraft, an Airbus EC-130 operated by Orbic Air LLC, departed Palm Springs Airport bound for Boulder City, Nevada, on Friday evening. Eyewitnesses along I-15 reported the crash, prompting an emergency response.

Despite adverse weather conditions, including rain and wintry precipitation, witnesses noted a fire on the helicopter and downed power lines at the crash site. Graham urged anyone with additional information, including multimedia evidence, to contact the NTSB.

During a press briefing, Graham emphasized the preliminary nature of the investigation and extended condolences to the families affected by the tragedy. The crash site, near the California-Nevada border, is a remote area with an abandoned gas station serving as a landmark.

Among those onboard the helicopter was Herbert Wigwe, CEO of Access Bank, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s banking sector. Wigwe, his family, and others, including Bamofin Abimbola Ogunbanjo, former chair of NGX Group, perished in the crash.

The loss of Wigwe and his family has reverberated globally, eliciting tributes and condolences from the Nigerian and international communities. Wigwe’s leadership at Access Bank has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s financial landscape, with his vision guiding the institution’s growth and influence.

Credit: NPR