By Jonece Starr Dunigan
Alabama Media Group
CHILTON COUNTY, Ala. — A Georgia mayor has confirmed that a retired police officer was one of two people killed after a helicopter crashed into Lake Mitchell in Chilton County.
David Hall, of the Columbus Police Department, was piloting the helicopter that was part of a metro narcotics task force. The task force includes both Georgia and Alabama law enforcement agencies. The crash happened on Friday at Cargile Creek on Lake Mitchell.
After a two-day search for the helicopter and the passengers, the Chilton County coroner’s office said two bodies were recovered Sunday afternoon. Divers had to stop searching efforts on Saturday nightdue to strong currents, but the search resumed on Sunday morning. Coroner J. Aaron Ellison said the second passenger was a 22-year-old male. The Coroner’s office is not releasing the second victim’s name at the request of the family.
Columbus Mayor Teresa Tomlinson mourned Hall’s death on Twitter. Hall, who was 53, joined the Columbus police force in 1990 and served for 28 years. Despite his retirement, Tomlinson said Hall still served the city with his piloting skills. Authorities said the helicopter was heading to Clanton for maintenance.
“He was beloved and respected by his fellow officers and by all who knew him,” Tomlinson said.
Tomlinson did not release the name of the second victim, but expressed her condolences to both families who were affected by the crash.
“Our hearts go out to those who are suffering with this loss,” she tweeted. “The Lord heals the brokenhearted.”
https://www.facebook.com/MayorTeresaTomlinson/posts/2064554496915352