Two dead in helicopter crash

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ELLIS COUNTY, Texas- Two pilots are dead after a helicopter crash Wednesday .

They were performing flight test operations on an experimental twin-engine Bell Helicopter 525 Relentless.

NEW: Helicopter that crashed in Ellis County is Bell helicopter 525. It was on test flighthttps://t.co/qZpzdgOulq pic.twitter.com/pduFHLOsOn

— ScottGordonNBC5 (@ScottGordonNBC5) July 6, 2016

It’s with incredible sadness for us to confirm the tragic loss of two pilots during a flight test today in the Bell 525. (1/3)

— Bell (@BellFlight) July 6, 2016

Our deepest sympathies are with their family and friends and we ask that you join us in sending thoughts and prayers. (2/3)

— Bell (@BellFlight) July 6, 2016

We’re working with relevant authorities to determine the cause of the accident and will provide further details as they come available.(3/3)

— Bell (@BellFlight) July 6, 2016

The names of the pilots have not yet been released and the cause of the crash is unknown at this time.

Bell Helicopter issued a statement:

On July 6, 2016, a Bell 525 was involved in an accident while conducting developmental flight test operations south of our Xworx facility in Arlington, Texas. Unfortunately, the accident resulted in a loss of two crew members. This is a devastating day for Bell Helicopter. We are deeply saddened by the loss of our teammates and have reached out to their families to offer our support. Bell Helicopter representatives are onsite to assess the situation and provide any assistance to local, state, and federal authorities. At this time we ask for your understanding as we work through all of the details. We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.